Marian “Suzy” Cravens


Marian Earle “Suzy” Cravens, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and dear friend to many, peacefully completed her circle of life on Sunday, March 14, 2010, in Shoreline, WA.   Suzy was born May 6, 1924, in Arkansas, and moved to Oakdale, Louisiana as an infant where she grew up.

She eloped three days after turning 18 to marry Armon I. Cravens, the dashing young cavalryman she met at the “five & dime” store where she worked, and their marriage continued nearly 68 years to her passing.  Suzy raised her family with the utmost love and generosity and made it her personal challenge to bring her children up in an environment free of the poverty and prejudices that surrounded her own childhood.  

Suzy reared her family in the San Fernando Valley of California, and after her sons left the nest she moved to Stockton, CA, where she and Armon enjoyed many years of houseboating on the Sacramento Delta.  Suzy’s great love of meeting and socializing with people enriched the lives of all who met her with her warm and open hearted friendship. 

When they needed greater assistance, Suzy and Armon moved to Seattle, WA, to be in the care of their first son Armon and his generous wife Carol, who made mom’s and dad’s lives comfortable and dignified.  The family extends grateful thanks to all the wonderful care providers who helped mom, and, like us, came to love her.  

Suzy is survived by her husband Armon, and sons Armon Craig Cravens, Seattle WA, Alan Gregory Wonderwheel, Santa Rosa, CA, and Arlen Patrick Cravens, Redding CA, and their wives, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  The day before her passing she met and fondly caressed her newest great grandson, 3-week old Armon Daschiell LaMotte.  

At Suzy’s request there will be no funeral service. In the future after Armon’s passing, a memorial will be held in the Stockton area when her and Armon’s ashes will be released together into the waters they loved.  Please contact the family if you want to be notified of the memorial plans.


Marian Earle "Suzy" Cravens