Suzette (Runyan) Wardrep

Suzette Runyan Wardrep, age 79, of Newport, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Suzette was born and raised in Newport, TN, where she was a lifelong member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. A devoted Sunday School teacher, she was known for her unwavering faith and her willingness to share it with others. Her love for God was evident in everything she did—from her kind and compassionate caregiving to the countless children she helped raise and care for over the years.

Suzette had a special gift for cooking and was especially known for her legendary no-bake cookies—so good that her two brothers often playfully fought over them. Her kitchen was always a place of comfort, laughter, and warmth.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Dorothy Runyan, and her beloved daughter, Julia Wardrep.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Blaine Wardrep; her son, Chad Wardrep (Judy Long); grandsons, Jon Williams and Jude Beason; and her brothers, Mike (Lorane) Runyan and Jeff (Terri) Runyan. She also leaves behind many cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to her caregivers—Martha Ford Sutton, Cindy Ford, Judy Holt—and the compassionate team at Amedisys of Morristown for their devoted support.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, with Glenn Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at the same location.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. Please check back at www.resthavenmemorialgardens.com for updates.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church of Newport in Suzette’s memory.

Family and friends may sign the online register book and post condolences at www.resthavenmemorialgardens.com                                                                                                                              

Services provided by Resthaven Funeral Home|Cemetery|Cremations.

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