Susan Crowder Carter

Susan Crowder Carter, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on October 24, 2026, one day after her 83rd birthday.
Born on October 23, 1943, in Annapolis, Maryland, to George and Martha Crowder, Susan graduated from Columbus High School in 1961. While attending Murray State University, she met Larry, the love of her life. They married on December 15, 1962, beginning a marriage that spanned 63 years. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family.
Susan spent many years working at her family’s company, Crowder and Associates (aka Crowder and Darnell). But beyond her work, she will be remembered for a life marked by service, generosity, and genuine care for others. Whether delivering meals through Meals on Wheels, volunteering as a court appointed advocate for children, reading to kids through Book Buddies, fostering animals, or simply showing up for friends and family, Susan found meaningful ways to make a difference in the lives of those around her.
A lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Columbus, Susan faithfully served and cared for her church family. She sang in the choir, played handbells, and lived out her faith through quiet acts of kindness and a willingness to serve. Her faith was woven into the fabric of her life and reflected in the way she loved others.
Susan had a curious mind and a generous spirit. An avid reader and lifelong learner, she was always interested in discovering something new. She was a thoughtful friend and gracious host, who knew how to bring people together. Her clever sense of humor added laughter to everyday moments, and her warmth made others feel welcome and valued. She understood that some of life’s most meaningful moments happen around a table, in a conversation, or through a simple act of kindness.
Above all, Susan treasured her family. She is survived by her husband, Larry; her children, Jill Snyder (Rodney), Sally Berry (Tim), and Brent Carter (Sally Gilbertson); and her grandchildren, Natalie Black (Kevin), Luke Snyder (Emily), Logan Snyder (fiancée Natalie May), Carly Bias, Celia Bias, Carter Bias, and Sadie Carter. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Ryann, Nora, Graham, Mara, and Mac.
She is also survived by her siblings, Scott Crowder, Jeanne Wetzel, Jan McGill, and Joan Powell, along with many nieces and nephews who were part of her extended family.
Susan’s life was a testament to the power of faith, the importance of family, and the lasting impact of a life spent caring for others. Her legacy lives on in the gardens she planted, the people she loved, the friendships she nurtured, the service she gave, and the countless ways she made life a little brighter for those around her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
The family is grateful for the care Susan received at Columbus Regional Health and Our Hospice of South Central Indiana.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, with calling beginning at 2 pm and service at 4 pm at First Baptist Church of Columbus, 3300 Fairlawn Drive. The family invites everyone to wear bright colors in celebration of Susan’s life and her love of all things colorful.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church Foundation and mailed to 3300 Fairlawn Drive, Columbus, IN 47203 or Friends of Columbus Animal Care Services.
Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory is entrusted with caring for Susan and the Carter family. You may send condolences to the Carter family and sign the guest book via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com