Effie Sue “Susie” Carswell Hyder, who died October 8, 2025,was the beloved daughter of the late William Chase “Speed” Carswell and Leona Mae Mooney Carswell. Also preceding her in death was her husband of 35 years, William Carl Hyder. Although they later divorced, they rekindled a close friendship and a shared bond later in life until his passing.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Terry Hyder; her daughters, Cindy Kiser (Wendall Nunn) and Lisa Wilson; her longtime caregiver and dear friend, Debbie Fisher, whose compassion and care brought comfort and companionship through the years. She was a devoted grandmother to Michelle Vestal (Mike), Kaylen Turner (Jay), Dallas Moore, and Josh Wilson and a proud great-grandmother to Hayden, Ezrah, Magnolia, and Zayne.

She is also survived by her niece, Anna (Mark) Ruby, and nephew, Carter (Kim) Adkinson and their children, as well as her sister-in-law, Judy Adkinson (Franklin) all of whom held a cherished place in her heart; and a host of special cousins who shared lifelong memories and love with her.

She was affectionately known as “Gaga” to her grandchildren, to their friends, to the children she loved like her own, and to her extended family—all of whom she loved with all her heart.

From the very beginning, Susie was a miracle and a strong fighter — weighing just two pounds at birth. Her determination and spirit carried her throughout her life, inspiring everyone who knew her.

Susie was a graduate of RS Central High School and Isothermal Community College. She was a proud member of  The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and a long-time, faithful member of The First United Methodist Church in Forest City.

Having lived in Spain for five years, Susie became fluent in Spanish and often volunteered her time to help others translate and navigate communication barriers. She worked for many years in transportation and for the State of NC, always dedicated to helping others.

An avid reader, Susie loved learning and sharing stories. She also had a deep passion for music and was an accomplished pianist, often finding joy and peace at the piano. However, her favorite moments were those spent with her grandchildren, who brought endless laughter and light into her life. She was also a passionate animal lover and a proud supporter of the Humane Society.

Her life was marked by love, perseverance, and compassion — a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:30 on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the First united Methodist Church with Reverend Bill Roberts and Reverend Rhonda Blackburn officiating.  The family will receive friends at the church from 1:30 until 2:30 prior to the service.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to support her daughter, Cindy Kiser, who is currently in the ICU at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital recovering from LVAD heart surgery.

Contributions can be made to Cindy Kiser through various outlets, such as a deposit into the NC State Employees’ Credit Union in Sue Hyder’s account # 2792050, which will be used for Cindy’s care. Donations may also be given to her daughters, Michelle and Kaylen, or her sister, Lisa, who will ensure the funds are delivered to Cindy.

If you prefer to mail a contribution, please send it to:

Sue Hyder / Cindy Kiser
118 Carswell Place, Bostic, NC 28018

The family sincerely thanks you for your love, prayers, and support during this time.

Please join the family in the fellowship hall immediately following the service for refreshments and a warm time of fellowship and remembrance

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements, and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com