With profound sadness and cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of Sue Elaine Boatright, age 70, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at Memorial Hospital in Savannah. A service to celebrate Sue's life was held Saturday, October 3, at 1 p.m. at Hawhammock Baptist Church.
Born April 1, 1956, in Swainsboro, Sue was the beloved daughter of the late William (Willie) L. Johnson and Carrie Lou Johnson. She was a woman whose gentle spirit and unwavering kindness touched everyone she met. Her legacy of love and kindness continues through her devoted husband, Lamar Boatright, with whom she shared 54 beautiful years of marriage. Their bond was a testament to enduring love and companionship, marking a life filled with shared dreams and unwavering support.
Together, Sue and Lamar were blessed with two wonderful children, Adam Boatright, married to Telisha, of Dellwood and Holly Beecher, married to Jim, of Oak Park. Sue was a loving and doting grandmother to six grandchildren, Olivia Jean Boatright, Hudson Beecher, Sarah Beth Beecher, Drayton Beatty, Nezzie Beatty, and Abigayle Smith. Her siblings, Faye Parrish (James), Ronnie Gene Johnson (Judy), and Calvin Johnson (Angel), continue to carry forward the family’s strong bonds and memories.
Sue attended Emanuel County Institute and later achieved her GED in Swainsboro. Her career at Smith Rural Health Clinic spanned over two decades, where she was not just a front desk receptionist but a cherished friend and confidante to many. Her genuine care and compassion for patients and colleagues transformed her workplace into a second home.
Sue possessed a soul as sweet as it was gentle qualities that endeared her to all who knew her. Her love for cooking, reading, and tending to her flowers brought joy to her days, and she found delight in watching the Cooking Channel and sending her beloved "Pee Wee" on countless errands. Before her health declined, Sue enjoyed exercising with her workout tapes or at the walking trail in Swainsboro. Her unwavering love for her family and her Savior was evident in every aspect of her life. Although her physical presence at church waned with her health, her faith and love for the Lord only grew stronger. Her grandchildren describe her as colorful, sweet, kind, silly, radiant, loving, and caring words that capture the essence of a life well-lived. Mrs. Boatright is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, William and Carlton Johnson; and sisters, Debbie Brown and Carolyn Hooks.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Sue's honor.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Memorial Hospital in Savannah for the exceptional care and compassion given to Sue during her time there. As we say goodbye to a remarkable wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, we find comfort in the legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us with the warmth and love she so generously shared with the world.
Tomlinson Funeral Home & Crematory was in charge of arrangements.
