Bessie Louise Sabin passed away on May 10, 2020 in Mesa, AZ at the age of 89. She was born March 11, 1931 in Taylor, AZ to Lorenzo Dow Rhoton II and Jennie Brinkerhoff, the 5th of 7 children. She preferred her middle name, and everyone called her Louise or LuLu. Her family moved to Mesa when she was 12. She graduated from Mesa High School, where she made many friends and was a baton twirler on the Rabbette marching squad. She continued her education at ASU. She worked for Western Union before marrying Richard “Dick” D. Sabin on November 23, 1951 in the Mesa Temple. They are the parents of 6 sons and 1 daughter.
Dick and Louise’ lives were busy with scouting, ball games, wrestling matches, dance recitals and family camping trips. After their children were grown, they served a mission to the Dallas Texas Temple. They also served in the Mesa Family History Center and as ordinance workers in the Mesa Temple for many years. Louise was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she had the opportunity of serving in many callings. Louise enjoyed playing volleyball, playing games, sewing, making quilts, crocheting, doing puzzles, reading and serving on the election board. She was well known for her homemade bread, plum jelly, scotcheroos, divinity, hand quilted fancy quilts and tied jean camp quilts.
We are sure Louise had a glorious Mother’s Day as she reunited with family members that preceded her in death; her parents, 4 siblings, a grandson and her husband. She will be greatly missed by her 2 surviving siblings; Ted Rhoton and Joyce McCleve, all of her children; Dennis (Nada), Keith, Craig (Sandy), Dale (Nancy), John, Andy (Terri), Jennie (Mike Wood), 24 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Louise was a loyal friend, dedicated church member, devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother. We are thankful for her example, teachings and love. We will miss her stories, easy laugh, silly songs, twinkling eyes and warm hugs.
A private service will be held May 18th at Bunker’s Garden Chapel. It will be broadcast at 10:00 a.m. through zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84696001548?pwd=UHBDTTJOZ21VWHVVMUt4bi9QVWgvUT09. Louise will be laid to rest next to her eternal sweetheart in the City of Mesa Cemetery.
How I loved dear Louise, my Guide Scout Primary Teacher in the Mesa 10th Ward nearly 70 years ago. Her patience with we boys causes me to marvel. Other members of our class included DeWayne Cooley, Gary Perkins, Bernard Merrill, and others. We all loved her dearly. I kept in contact with Louise via telephone for many, many years. She always enjoyed and appreciated the calls, as did I… immensely. The last time I called, probably a year or two ago, she didn’t remember me at all, and I felt like our conversation was upsetting to her, so I haven’t spoken with her since then. But I loved her dearly, and her husband Dick, both of whom were my friends for life. My love and condolances to all her family.
I’m so sad that Louise has gone. She (and Nita Reheis) was one of the first people I met when I moved to Mesa like about a hundred years ago in the old 21st Ward which was the best ward ever. I think they were visiting teachers or something. What a wonderful woman she was! I wish those days could come back.
Dear John, Craig, Andy and Jennie, so sorry to hear the passing of your dear Mom. Love and hugs to you all. I miss all of you and hope you are doing well. Suzanne
The 1st time that I met Louise Sabin was at a bridal shower for her grand daughter (Amy Ruth Sabin)-my daughter-in-law. She said, “Come here, I want to tell you something.” She said, “The 1st time I met your son, I said, I really like that young man.” That made my day!!!!! Since that day in 2012, Thanner and Amy have married, bought a home, had a little boy with the most beautiful blue eyes, long eyelashes, cutest smile!!!! His name is Ridge Thanner Darien. His name is a combination of the names of his maternal grandfathers Richard Sabin and Rudger Hiatt-two great men. There is surely a great reunion going on as this beautiful and kind lady is welcomed into Heaven.
Love you all!!!
Nancy D
Hey Sabin’s, so sorry to hear about mom Sabin’s passing, but what a blessing to be free and clear and with the rest of those she loves. She has always been such a special woman, a great example, and a loving, caring mother figure to me. She was such a big part of growing up for me, as were you all. I have no doubt, my life would have been very different without her patience and guidance. She will be greatly missed.
Louise was a favorite relative of the Frank Rhoton family and she will be missed. We send our love.
Louise was one of the sweetest ladies I ever met. She was a good friend and a very spiritual woman. I loved her a lot. She will be missed very much!
So sorry to hear about Louise. My mother Louise and her were the best of friends, visiting teaching partners for years.Mom always spoke so loveingly about her.I miss Dick also.We must have refereed a thousand basketball games together