Barrita “Susie” Holverson, 75, a woman whose presence offered joy and laughter to those who loved her, passed away at 7:33 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Brickyard Healthcare of Kokomo.
Born July 28, 1950, in Logansport, Susie was the daughter of Henry B. and Faye E. (Turnpaugh) Holverson.
Susie was a 1969 graduate of the Indiana School for the Blind. Though blind, she lived with remarkable independence. She worked as a transcriptionist at St. Joseph Hospital for over 26 years, faithfully serving patients and staff with excellence and care.
A gifted musician, Susie was a longtime member of Anoka Community Church, where she served as pianist, worship leader, and music coordinator. She loved music and shared that love generously, participating in the Christmas Cantata for many years, playing with the Indiana Symphony Orchestra, and even writing the school song for the Indiana School for the Blind, a piece with a remarkable story behind it.
In 1969, as a graduating senior, Susie entered a contest to create an alma mater for the school. Only ten minutes before the deadline, she discovered that her original submission was too short. With her quick thinking and creativity, she composed an additional verse on the spot. Her entry won the contest, earning her an award, and the song she created went on to become a cherished tradition. Its melody has echoed from the school’s tower chimes, and its words have been sung by generations of students and alumni—honoring the spirit and legacy of the Indiana School for the Blind to this day.
In her spare time, Susie enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and making others laugh with her quick wit and playful jokes. She had a way of turning small, everyday moments into something warm and memorable. Her joyful spirit and deep faith in Christ blessed everyone who knew her.
Susie is survived by her loving family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends who will miss her voice, her humor, and the warmth she brought to their lives.
Susie was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Faye Holverson; and siblings, Ann (George) Dowden, Dorothy Cowan, Beverly Holverson, and Donald Holverson. We rejoice that she is now reunited with them in the presence of her Savior.
A funeral service celebrating Susie’s life will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Anoka Community Church, 4890 E County Rd 300 S, Logansport, IN.
Burial will follow at Walton IOOF Cemetery.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
Shirley & Stout Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the Indiana School for the Blind and Anoka Community Church. Messages of condolence may be left at www.shirleyandstout.com.
