Sue Chappell Rigby, of Mequon, WI, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6th, at the age of 85. Born on June 13th, 1940, in Birmingham, AL, she was the beloved daughter of George and Mary Edna Chappell. She grew up with a spirit of determination and resilience that remained with her throughout her life.

Sue built a remarkable life centered on education. Those who knew her will remember her as a dedicated teacher, a committed leader, and a generous mentor to students and colleagues alike. As a professor and administrator at Northern Michigan University, she distinguished herself as a respected author and nationally recognized leader in Business Education. At the same time, she embraced her life in Marquette, MI—learning to ski and sail, and cherishing many adventures exploring the Great Lakes with her husband, Bill.

Sue and Bill shared a loving partnership that lasted 57 years. Their deep mutual respect was evident to everyone who knew them and served as an enduring example of partnership, commitment, and grace.

Sue is survived by her husband, Bill; her son, Craig (Anna Timms); and her grandchildren, Cameron, Quinn, and Joshua. She is also survived by her nephew, Patrick Chappell. Each of them will carry forward memories of her kindness, strength, and unwavering resolve. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Kenny Chappell.

A service in Sue’s honor will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 21st at Newcastle Place in Mequon, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Newcastle Place Scholarship Fund, recognizing her lifelong commitment to elevating women in education.

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy continues on in the students, colleagues, friends, and family whose lives she touched.