Karen “Sue” Orders Hipps, 77, of Morganton, NC passed away Thursday, April 9, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on July 3, 1948, she was the daughter of the late William Moore Orders and Ora Mae Matthews Orders.
Sue was an active member of Friendship Baptist Church and a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority. She loved to shop and enjoyed reading and helping others.
Those left to cherish her memory include her sister-in-law, Samanthia “Sam” Orders; niece, Melissa O. West; special cousin, Jennifer Bostian; caregiver and friend, Joann King; a number of special friends and family; and Kaden and Kenzlee.
In addition to her parents, Sue was preceded in death by her brother, William R. Orders; and nephew, William “Billy” Orders.
A private service will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Friendship Baptist Church, 215 Hilltop Street, Morganton, NC 28655.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of College Pines Rehabilitation Center for the compassionate care shown to Sue.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Ms. Orders was my 5th or 6th grade teacher at Mull Elementary. She was a wonderful teacher who I credit for keeping school interesting. I would see her around town periodically after growing up and moving away. She never forgot my sister or me, and would always stop to say hello! She was definitely one of the good ones! Her friends and family are in my prayers.
Ms. Orders was my teacher at Mull Elementary School. She was an extraordinary teacher and friend. She made each and every one of us feel loved. I'll never forget her infectious smile!
Mrs. Orders was my teacher at Mull School. She was a great teacher and a fine lady and will be missed by many.
I went to school in Drexel with Sue and Bill orders. Sue was a fun and dear person who was just a year older than myself. I will hold the family in my heart and continue to hold old memories in my heart as well. She was a dear person.
I went to school in Drexel with Sue and Bill orders. Sue was a fun and dear person who was just a year older than myself. I will hold the family in my heart and continue to hold old memories in my heart as well. She was a dear person.
Sue was one of the most precious persons that there ever was. Always laughing and smiling. I know she just made heaven a little more crowded. Praying for her family and friends and all who knew her and was affected by her infectious smile and personality. She is definitely missed. 🙏🏻♥️
Sue was such an awesome friend, always ready to listen and help anyone she could. We met 53 years ago and became life long friends. I will miss her but she is dancing with Jesus with no pain and a new body.