Wanda Sue Koontz

Wanda Sue Koontz of Summerville, South Carolina, embarked on her heavenly journey on June 12, 2025, enveloped in love and comfort, and surrounded by her cherished family, a true testament to her unwavering strength and spirit that illuminated her path until the very end. 

She was preceded in death by her dearly loved and devoted husband, Bill Koontz of 59 years. 

She leaves behind her beloved and devoted daughter, Sabrina (Koontz) Vegis (Summerville, SC), her beloved and devoted son, Brian Koontz (Robyn) (Burbank, CA) and her grandchildren, US Marine LC Christopher Vegis (Yorktown, VA) Tanner Vegis (Charlotte, NC), Emma Koontz, Jude Koontz, Jaxon Koontz and Jett Koontz (all of Burbank, CA). 

Sue was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on September 29, 1942 to Vada (Chadwick) Merrill and Cleo Merrill. She is survived by her five siblings, Myrna Russell (Beaufort, NC), Bobby Merrill (Nancy) (Asheboro, NC), Gary Merrill (West Palm Beach, FL), Jevelyn Wade (Benny) (Greenacres, FL), and Sabrah Havard (Troy) (Morriston, FL). 

Sue's upbringing in Beaufort and Morehead City, North Carolina, was truly enriching. Sue had a passion for reading and loved playing basketball. After graduating from Beaufort High School in 1960, Sue pursued a data processing course the following year. Her first job was at a department store, where she  was in charge of managing inventory and ordering for a very large department. It was here Sue met her future husband, Bill Koontz in August 1963, while he was serving in the US Coast Guard. Bill and Sue's whirlwind romance led to a beautiful marriage in July 1964. After Bill's tour of duty in Hawaii, Bill and Sue embarked on a new adventure in West Palm Beach, Florida, where their daughter Sabrina was born in 1966, followed by the arrival of their son Brian in 1978.

Sue's life was a remarkable tapestry of growth, exploration, and love, as she evolved from a dedicated Montessori school teacher for 13 years to a trusted secretary for the State of Florida's Attorney General's Office for over 10 years, before retiring and moving to Summerville, South Carolina, to be closer to her family. Bill and Sue's love for adventure and connection led them to travel to Burbank, California, to visit their son Brian and his family, and they also treasured visiting the majestic Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, as well as nurturing relationships with family in Florida and North Carolina. Sue truly loved college football and always cheered for the USC Gamecocks. Sue's enthusiasm for life's joys took her on a festive girls' trip to New York City with her daughter, granddaughter, and friends, where they enjoyed a Broadway Show, The Rockettes, and the dazzling NYC Christmas displays.

Sue will be remembered for her remarkable kindness, compassionate and gentle nature, patience and above all, her unconditional love for her family. 

Arrangements by PARKS FUNERAL HOME, 130 W. 1st North Street, Summerville, SC 29483. www.parksfuneralhome.com.

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