Sue Colette Basta's Obituary
Susan Colette Basta, 79, of Grand Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, just two days shy of her 80th birthday.
Born on May 14, 1946, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Susan was the beloved daughter of Paul and Joan Shive. She grew into a woman whose life was defined by deep faith, unwavering love, and a remarkable gift for bringing people together.
Sue was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many—touching more lives and hearts than anyone could truly count. Her love for Christ guided her every step, and she lived her faith actively through her service at St. Mary of the Lakes Parish in Eustis, Florida, where she generously gave her time and care to others.
Family was the center of Sue’s world. She loved fiercely and unconditionally, raising six children with patience, humor, and forgiveness. She often joked about their “feral” moments, but no matter how far life scattered them, she always found a way to gather her flock back home. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and belonging.
Sue had a deep appreciation for nature, especially birds, finding joy and peace in their presence. She loved creating memories—whether around a card table, over a shared meal, or in the simple act of bringing family and friends together. She had a rare and beautiful ability to make everyone feel like family.
Her hugs were legendary—offered at just the right moments and filled with a love that could be felt long after they ended. Sue lived with an open heart and an open mind, serving as a steady pillar both within her family and her community. She will be profoundly missed and forever loved.
Sue was preceded in death by her father, Paul Shive, and her son, Daniel Edward Thompson.
She is survived by her loving husband, Donald John Basta; her children: Robert (Karen) Thompson, Kathy Thompson, Peter (Sabrina) Thompson, Paul Basta, Aaron (fiancée Sarah) Basta, and MiYoung (Paul) Tomko; 17 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; her mother, Joan Sutton Shive; and her siblings, Michael (Betty) Shive, Linda Fensler, and Sandy (Keith) Thomas.
Visitation June 5, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Hamlin & Hilbish Funeral Home 326 E. Orange Avenue Eustis, FL 32726
Funeral Mass June 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. St. Mary of the Lakes Parish 218 Ocklawaha Avenue Eustis, FL 32726
Internment:
June 27, 2026 10:30 am Resurrection Cemetery 200 W Romeo Rd, Romeoville, IL 60446
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