Rebecca Sutter

Rebecca Ruth Shoemaker, age 70, beloved nurse and leader in nursing practice and education, passed away July 4, 2018, at home with her husband and friends at her side.  Rebecca retired as Assistant Professor Clinical Nursing at the University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, where she received numerous faculty and teaching awards. She was known for her expertise in critical care, rehabilitation, gerontology, ethics and spiritual care.

She received her nursing diploma from Mennonite Hospital School of Nursing, Illinois State University; a bachelor of science degree from Northern Illinois University; a masters of science from the University of California.  She also earned hours towards a doctorate of divinity from Vanderbilt University in Nashville. Rebecca was faculty and Clinical Nurse Specialist at Vanderbilt University before coming to Austin.  She was active in parish nursing, International Council of Nursing, Texas Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau and many other national and international organizations.

Rebecca is survived by her husband of 45 years, Herb Sutter; family members Robert and Richard Shoemaker, Jason Shoemaker, Jessica Kendall, Lori Kennel, Bridget Kennel, Cullen Kennel, Gloria McGowan, Melanie McGowan, Gary McGowan, Robert McGowan, and Allyson Gregory. The family thanks Rebecca’s friends and neighbors who pulled together to provide care and love during her illnesses.  If desired, memorial contributions can be make to Good Samaritan or Salvation Army Disaster Services.

Arrangements are made by All Faiths Funeral Services, Austin.  On Thursday, July 12, 2018, visitation (9:30 am) and church service (11:00 am) will be held at Travis Christian Assembly, 8304 US 290 East, Austin, followed by internment (12:30 pm) at Cook-Walden Memorial Hill Cemetery, 14501 N. IH-35, Pflugerville, Texas.