The daughter of the late Norma Dale and Douglas Calhoun Bunch, Sue was born on March 19, 1940 in New York City, New York. She moved to Charleston with her parents at the age of two and continued to live in Charleston during her young life. Sue graduated from the College of Charleston with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970. Later she earned a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from the Citadel in 1973. Sue began her teaching career at Porter-Gaud school in 1970 and went on to teach English for forty years. Early on she became one of the first female teachers in the upper school when Porter Gaud was not yet coeducational. Sue served as the Chairman of the English department for many years. She was also instrumental in forming and leading the debate team at the school. Sue served as a college advisor and was heavily involved in guiding the student honor council. Her professional goal had always been to have an impact on her students that went beyond just teaching them English. After her long career, Sue retired from teaching in 2010. In her retirement, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She remained close with a group of life long friends known as The Supper Club who met regularly each month. Sue also enjoyed traveling and traveled extensively during her retirement having visited over twenty countries. She was active in her local community volunteering at the Lowcountry Senior Center and being an usher at the Gaillard Center and the Dock Street Theater. For many years, Sue served as a house manager for various events during Spoleto Festival USA. She enjoyed reading and music.

Sue is survived by her two daughters, Rhonda Chanson of Hollywood, S.C. and Erin McWhorter of Awendaw, S.C.; three grandchildren, Lauren Hamilton, Megan Folden, and Caroline McWhorter; five great-grandchildren; and her sister-in-law, Toni Bunch of Morganton, GA. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Douglas Edward Bunch.

The family will receive friends Saturday February 14, 2026 at J. Henry Stuhr, Inc at 232 Calhoun Street Charleston S.C. from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. A graveside service will be held afterwards at Bethany Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her honor to Porter-Gaud School or to the following charities- Lowcountry Food Bank, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Salvation Army.

Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. A memorial message may be sent to the family on our website at www.jhenrystuhr.com

We invite you to share a memory and sign our guest book.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier on Feb. 8, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Sue Chanson

10 Entries

Pat Bilot

February 15, 2026

Dear Rhonda, I had every intention of seeing you yesterday, which didn´t happen, so I could share my sadness for the loss of Sue. I ushered with Sue (Gaillard, Spoleto, Dock) for many years and enjoyed her humor and kindness during all of that time. Since her retirement from ushering we met for lunch when I was regaled by her delightful story telling. I loved visiting w both of you at the Symphony events. Sue and I shared a love of literature and the arts. She was also very funny which I adored
Hoping to still see you at some future time, I am sorry for her loss in your lives and in mine. Patty

Sandra hanna

February 10, 2026

She and I met about age 12 and grew up together she was always there to have fun and when I needed love and a best friend we went through school together and dating and marriage and divorces I love her dearly and will miss her with all my heart will see you in heaven

Lucy Buxton

February 8, 2026

Erin and Rhonda, I´m so sorry for your loss. I´m so glad she was at Porter-Gaud while I was there and that I had the opportunity to have her positive influence on me both as a teacher and a coach. Much love to you both.

Catherine Sadler

February 8, 2026

Sue was one of the few people at the College of Charleston to be given an A by Nan Morrison. I'm sorry we lost touch.

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Betsy (Tony) DeVault

February 7, 2026

Tony was blessed to know Sue, longer than I .. His Cousin Sandra's best friend "Sue" since they both were 14. I met her in the 70s, and quickly learned of her kindness & friendly nature. Always was such a joy when we came to visit Sandra and Sue could be there for the laughter while we celebrated the the visit .... I do remember that Sue and Sandra both came to our home on the way to visit Sandra's Granddaughter Ashley ... She touched so so many hearts not just in her profession, but in the world with her loving kind ways... Tony and I are sadden we couldn't see her one more time... however know she is safe and content in the arms of our dear Lord ... Prayers to her children and loved ones. Betsy & Tony DeVault Hemingway, SC

Susan Dorn

February 6, 2026

Rhonda, Erin, & all your family, Pete & I are sad to lose Sue. We don’t see any of you , but I particularly , think about you two girls & Sue very often. She was a good mom & a great English teacher. I will miss her ; Sue was probably the last connection to that age group of the Chanson family . I hope 2 see you on you the 14th. Ya’ll are in my thoughts . Lovingly , Susan (&Pete)

Edward Burrows

February 6, 2026

I have lost a wonderful person who was a great friend to both myself and my wife. We were colleagues for many years and I was lucky to have that experience. I offer heartfelt condolences to Rhonda and Erin and all her relatives.

Kathy Heinsohn

February 5, 2026

My heart aches for you Rhonda and Erin. It is so hard to lose a mom. And yours was dear. After basketball games which she supported eagerly, we´d end up at sleep overs at your home. She made us the best breakfast and lunches. French toast and grilled cheese sandwiches. She was so supportive and loving. Very fond memories of also playing board games with her and Beverly Oswald on Friday or Saturday nights! She was fun. You´re all in my prayers. Love Tree

Aldrich Boss

February 4, 2026

I remember Mrs Chanson with great fondness. Mrs. Chanson helped instill me in a lifelong habit and enjoyment of reading, writing, and public speaking. She had a warmth, sense of humor, and genuine interest in the success of her students.

Shirley S Peeples

February 4, 2026

So sorry to hear of sue's passing. May God grant comfort and peace to the family

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