Sue N. Hackney

Sue N. Hackney, 91, died October 20, 2026. Born January 3, 1935, Sue lived in Papillion, Nebraska, and leaves behind a life remembered for steady devotion, generous love, and a spirit that could be both spunky and humorous—always anchored by honesty, faith, and a kind heart.

Sue grew up in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, alongside two brothers and two sisters. She graduated from Central High School in 1952, and even then her faith and love of music were already woven into daily life—singing in both the church choir and her high school choir, offering her voice with the same sincerity and warmth she brought to everything she did.

In June of 1953, Sue married Paul Hackney, and together they raised five daughters. As a military wife, she carried her home with her—moving all over the world and across the country, including Germany, Alaska, California, New York, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Nebraska. Through every relocation and new beginning, Sue’s hard-working nature and compassionate steadiness made her a source of strength for those around her.

Sue built a long and faithful career at the Sarpy County District Court, where she worked as a bookkeeper for over 20 years before retiring in 2000. Her work reflected who she was: dependable, forthright, and quietly committed to doing things the right way.

For the last 26 years, Sue shared her life with her significant other, John Cox. Whether through everyday life or the simple joy of time together, Sue’s love showed up in practical, heartfelt ways.

Sue was a wonderful seamstress, cook, baker, and gardner, and she delighted in caring for others—especially her family. She remained very active in the church, where her faithful presence and love of music continued to shine. She sang in the church choir, played the piano, and brought a celebratory spirit to life’s moments big and small. She especially loved giving presents, finding joy in the happiness of others and the simple beauty of thoughtful giving.

Sue was preceded in death by parents, Perry and Ethel Howell; siblings, Gene Howell, Jerry Howell, and Erlene Iezzi; and great-granddaughter, Anna Pfahl.

Sue is survived by loving daughters, Debi (Gene) Pfahl, Paula Gustin, Jill (Britt) Miller, Judy (Mark) Stigge, and Cindy (Harry) Larsen; grandchildren, Melissa (Nick) Panko, Tim (Andrea) Pfahl, Jason (Georgia Hart) Stigge, Brian (Tina) Stigge, Janna (Nicholas) Conant, Molly (Ryan) McGrail, Matthew Bishop, Laura (Dustin) Neuhalfen, Brennen (Jennifer Shaw) Miller, Jessica (Phil) Fairbanks, 27 great-grandchildren; sister, Faye Seifrit; sisters-in-law, Ginny Tedder, Corine Howell, Robbie Howell, and many loving family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Brookestone in Papillion especially Amanda, Katie, Randi, Irene, Kim, and Meranda (Hospice Nurse).