Lila Sue Van Valkenburgh McAllister

Celebrating the life of Lila Sue McAllister, fondly known as Sue, who passed away on Tuesday, October 14. Born in Salina, KS, Sue spent her vibrant life as a dedicated mother, grandmother, aunt, friend, and a compassionate nurse and talented cellist.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am – 10:00 am, Funeral Service will be at 10:00 am, Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Calvary United Methodist Church.

Sue met her first husband, Fredrick Van Valkenburgh, on a blind date, and was married in Santa Monica.  Sue was a devoted parent to her son and adopted triplets. They lived and raised their four children in Southern California over 34 years, until they retired to Salina, KS.

Sue then married Robert McAllister, a UMC youth friend, after both their spouses passed, during Thanksgiving Week 2000 in Wichita, KS, where they made their home. Together, they shared 24 years of marriage filled with love and mutual respect. A loving mom and straight shooter, Sue was a devoted parent to their six combined adult children and their nine grandchildren.

Professionally, Sue had a profound impact in the nursing field, with a career spanning over 35 years across Kansas, Colorado, and predominantly in California at institutions like UCLA and Santa Monica Hospital. She completed her nurse education at Wesley Nursing School in Wichita. Her commitment extended beyond professional responsibilities as she actively supported various community initiatives, including the Grace Med Guild and volunteering with the Wichita Symphony and Old Town.

Sue’s passion for music was evident as a cellist and bass musician from sixth grade to college.  She had a scholarship to Kansas University, but she always wanted to be a Nurse.  Although she chose nursing over a music career, her love for the arts never waned, evident in her continued support and season tickets to both Wichita and Los Angeles Musical Theaters. She also sang in her church choirs. and served as the Choir Parent Chair at Granada Hills High School during her triplets’ senior year, fostering a love for music and arts in others.

Raised a Methodist, Sue converted to Catholicism for her husband while in California before returning to her Methodist roots upon retirement. She remained active in her spiritual community, especially within the Calvary UMC Ages & Stages Bible Study.

A world traveler, Sue cherished trips to visit family with her husband Bob to England, California, Kansas, Colorado, and Indiana, creating lasting memories.

Sue’s life was a remarkable blend of care, community service, and dedication to the arts, leaving a legacy of love, music, and healing that will be cherished by all who knew her. Her spirited presence and wise counsel will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all the lives she touched.

Preceded in death by her first husband, Fredrick Van Valkenburgh; parents, Ora and Estella Tweedy; brothers, William and Eugene Tweedy.

Survived by her husband, Robert McAllister; sons, William “Bill” (Julie) Szolek-Van Valkenburgh, Mark Van Valkenburgh; daughters, Lisa (David) Rose, Susan Singh; step-sons, Steve (Rhonda) McAllister, Mike McAllister; 9 grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: GraceMed, 1150 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67214.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.