In Memory of Susan Ball

We are sad to say that on Saturday November 13, Susan Ball (co-owner of Schoharie Valley Farms) lost her brief but fierce battle with an illness. She was surrounded by friends and family to the end, and will always be remembered in our hearts. We would like to welcome all to join the family for a Memorial Service at 4 pm on Friday, December 3rd at the Schoharie Reformed Church, with a reception and celebration of life to follow at the Carrot Barn.

In her honor, the family has created “The Sunshine Foundation” to continue her life’s passion of giving back to the community. Contributions may be made in her memory to “The Sunshine Foundation” c/o NBT Bank of Schoharie, PO Box 688, Schoharie, NY 12157.

BIOGRAPHY
Susan was born in Spokane, Washington July 22, 1954. One of four children, they grew up with parents Robert and Jackie (Ryan) Markham in Warwick, Rhode Island. She graduated from Warwick Vets HS in 1972 and received her Bachelors of Education degree from the University of Rhode Island in 1976. In 1976 she set about putting a life and vision together with a young farmer named Richard. Along the way they raised three children and purchased their own farm in the Schoharie Valley. Since 1993, Sue & Richard along with their children, have owned and operated Schoharie Valley Farms and the Carrot Barn.

She was active in the community as a member of the Schoharie Valley Association, Schoharie County & NY State Farm Bureaus, NY State Agricultural Society, NY State Vegetable Growers Association, Schoharie Promotional Association, and the Schoharie Colonial Heritage Association.

Survivors, still in awe of her, include her husband Richard Ball, children Sarah Jess (husband Jacob Hooper), JoLyn (husband Joshua Borst), Ethan (wife Mary), all residing in Schoharie County and six grandchildren with more on the way. Her parents Robert and Jackie of Warwick, RI, sister Diane Lyckland of Warwick, RI, sister Shirley Boensch of Maryland, two nephews and three nieces. She is predeceased by her brother Michael. All are welcome to join the family for a Memorial Service at 4 pm on Friday, December 3rd at the Schoharie Reformed Church, Main Street with a reception and celebration of life to follow at the Carrot Barn.