Rinona Sue Lauderdale's Obituary
Rinona Sue Lauderdale, 85, of Galena Park, Texas, passed peacefully at her Houston home on February 5, 2026. Known to family and friends simply as “Sue,” she will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and the way she made every person feel genuinely seen and valued.
Born on October 30, 1940, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to Al and Mo Stacy, Sue grew up with a strong sense of faith and family. On May 4, 1962, she married the love of her life, James Lauderdale, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared purpose. Together, they raised two children, Paul and Staci, who were the pride and joy of her life.
A lifelong learner, just after high school, Sue pursued nursing at TWU. She returned to college later in life, earning her bachelor’s degree in 1982 and soon later completing her master’s degree in English. She devoted 30 years to teaching at Galena Park High School, where she inspired countless students and colleagues through her dedication, compassion, and genuine care. Her commitment to mentorship and her respected leadership left a lasting impact, reminding all who knew her of the importance of being fully present and invested in others.
Creative and thoughtful, Sue found joy in quilting, reading, crocheting, and painting. Through her talents, she created countless keepsakes that will be cherished by family and friends for generations. Beyond her home and classroom, she was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Galena Park, where she volunteered with Vacation Bible School and contributed her skills to church restoration projects.
Sue was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Lauderdale, and her parents, Al and Mo Stacy. She is survived by her son, Paul Lauderdale and his wife Leslie; her daughter, Staci Carter and her husband Anthony; her grandchildren, Christopher Lauderdale and his wife Melisa, Bobbie Warner and her husband Brett, Devin Lauderdale and her husband Kevin, and Jordan Carter; and her great-grandchildren, Sydne Jones, Deacon Lauderdale, Brylie Warner, Kason Hebert, Brooke Warner, Taylor Pearl Lauderdale, and Dean Hebert. She is also lovingly remembered by a host of dear friends and former students who will miss her greatly.
Services will take place at:
San Jacinto Memorial Park Funeral Home
14659 East Freeway Houston, TX 77015
Visitation – Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Celebration of Life – Friday, February 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
— John 14:27
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