Susan Bartell Yarborough, 74, passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Born on May 15, 1951, in Hemingway, South Carolina, Susan was the daughter of John H. Bartell Sr. and Eleida Altman Bartell. She was a devoted Christian and longtime member of Marion Presbyterian Church, where she faithfully served as an Elder.
Susan pursued her passion for teaching at Coker College and dedicated 40 years to education in Marion School District I. Teaching was her true calling, and she cherished the opportunity to nurture and inspire her students. Beyond the classroom, she was a proud Swamp Fox fan and a loyal supporter of the athletic programs. For many seasons, she could be found running the scoreboard at Marion High School basketball games, cheering her Swamp Foxes every step of the way!
After retirement, Susan continued to pour her heart into the community and friendships. She was an active member of the Marion Azalea Club, the Book Review Club, and the Bridge Club, fondly known as the “Bridgettes” – who may or may not actually play Bridge. She loved the outdoors, whether tending her yard, bird watching, or enjoying a quick game of monkey in the middle with her family. Time at the beach was among her greatest joys, often with a good book in hand and Jimmy Buffett playing in the background.
Above all, Susan treasured her role as a mother and grandmother, cherishing time spent with her family and proudly following their many activities.
Susan leaves behind a legacy of love that will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her. She is survived by her sons, Stanley Dean Yarborough Jr. (Donna) of Easley, SC, and Jon Francis Yarborough (Stephanie) of Myrtle Beach, SC; six grandchildren, Hampton Yarborough, Libby Claire Yarborough, Calhoun Yarborough, Russell Yarborough, Harrison Yarborough, and Henry Yarborough; her brother, John H. Bartell Jr (Angela) of Lake City, SC; her nephew, John H. Bartell III; along with many cousins and dear friends.
The family is deeply grateful to McLeod Health Hospice Care, Wayfinder In Home Care, and to very special friends – Esther, Genoveva, Jeanette, Kiki, Lisa, Mary, Queenie, and Shanna – for the kindness, dignity, and care they provided to Susan, as well as the comfort they brought to the entire family.
A graveside service will be held at Indiantown Presbyterian Church (4865 Hemingway Highway, Hemingway, SC 29554) on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
The family will receive friends from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Marion Presbyterian Church (208 South Main Street, Marion, SC 29571).
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to McLeod Health Hospice (1203 East Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29506), Bold & Beautiful Wigs for Cancer (1561 Hwy17 North, Little River, SC 29566) or Marion Presbyterian Church (208 South Main Street, Marion, SC 29571).