Viva Sue Perez, known to her loved ones as Meme, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at the age of 97, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on February 13, 1929, in Grant, Alabama, Sue lived a life defined by faith, family, community service, and devotion to those around her. She touched countless lives throughout her 97 years. And, even in her final days, her life force of unwavering love for others was evident, as she spoke and laughed with those around her.
Throughout her life, Sue was known for never slowing down. Even at 97, she took joy in attending church, caring for her son’s dog, visiting with her Florida family, and working in the church thrift store. She would even take trips back to her birthplace to visit with family and place flowers on family graves.
Sue was born in rural Alabama and grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. Her life was not easy, as she revealed in many stories of flour sack dresses and having only butter and syrup with homemade biscuits to eat. She met her husband, a recent World War II veteran, while visiting her beloved Florida family. From there, a new adventure of international travel ensued. Finally settling in North Alabama, where she began, she raised two boys alongside her husband while working for decades with the Community Watch, being awarded numerous awards and recognitions.
It was during this time that she became a member of Hillsboro Heights Baptist Church and later Huntsville Park Baptist Church. Yet again, another important part of Sue’s family. She truly loved the church and, above all, her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. One of her final joys in life was attending Wednesday and Sunday Services.
Another of her final joys was seeing her caregiver, Anna, each day. Over time, Anna became far more than a caregiver; Sue made her an honorary daughter. Through her unwavering compassion, patience, and love, Anna reminded us that angels truly do walk among us.
Above all, Sue cherished her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose love and guidance will continue to inspire generations. She is survived by children, Andy and Gail Perez, and David and Brenda Perez; grandchildren, Andy Jr. and Tara Perez, Ashley and Stephen Lambruschi, David and Jamie Perez, Courtney Perez, Patrick and Chase Dowling-Smith; great-grandchildren, AJ Perez, Aidan Perez, Cooper Lambruschi, Collins Lambruschi, Landon Steward, Jude Perez, and Dean Perez. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dominick Perez; parents, Joe and Stella Parker; siblings, Sherman and Louise Parker, and May and Paul Guyse; daughter-in-law, Melinda Perez; and great-granddaughter-in-law, Caitlen Perez.
Sue will be remembered for her warm heart, strong will, and lasting impact she made on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, faith, and dedication will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
A visitation and funeral service will be held at Laughlin Service Funeral Home on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of her life and to honor the beautiful memories she leaves behind. Burial will be Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Memory Gardens at 10:00am.
May Sue rest in eternal peace as she rejoins her family already gone on and forever.
