Sandra Lee Scussel

Sandra is survived by her four Children: Kathryn “Kate” Scussel, Kevin Scussel (& wife Beth), Nancy Smith (& husband Derrick), and Debra Moroski (& husband Steve). She also leaves behind six Grandchildren: Sarah Scussel (fiancé Brett), Luke Scussel, Sydney Ayers, Mia Ayers, Zach Moroski & Joey Moroski; as well as two siblings Lori Rodriguez and Jesse “Woody” Woodall (& wife Diane).

“A lifetime of selfless service to others”

Eighty-one years ago, the Good Lord lent us one of his angels. Last Sunday, he called her home. Our hearts are heavy and broken at our loss, but they are also filled from the time and impact she had on us. Everyone that met her commented on how sweet of a person she was. Her warm spirit endeared her to everyone she met. In 53 years I actually never heard her say a cross word to or about anyone, even when it would be deserved. As a teenager I gave her plenty of reasons for cross words, all she had for any of us was love, trust, forgiveness and compassion. She always gave all these gifts freely, no strings attached – nothing in it for her. Of modest means she somehow still managed to help each of us establish our own paths. She was there to help co-sign for a car when I graduated and moved away. When one was struggling with a bill, she was there. Mom never looked for thanks, accolades or credit. Her joy was found in our endeavors. A rare woman who truly lived for others. A humility that actually elevates a person to royalty, don’t you think?

I (we) feel so blessed to have had such a great mom! While it would be a deeply inadequate attempt to honor a person’s life in a few paragraphs or pages, mom can really be described in one, “selfless”. She taught us through her decades of Christ-like actions. She worked hard at bookkeeping, clerical and office management positions, but never truly sought personal gain or possessions. She gave to others, often to her last, or even borrowed, dollar.

Mom taught us to believe. Mom had a brand of faith that was just noticed. Never boasted or belabored with speeches or prayers aloud, but rather a quiet faith. Like a duck on the pond – you just see calm on the surface while paddling (or praying) like hell underneath. I know she prayed for me in times of challenge and trouble, I felt it. I also know she had un-answered prayers, but faith of her caliber is unbreakable. I see in myself, my sisters and my children that far more of her prayers were answered that not. She forged a foundation for us that has carried us through many trials of life. I believe this to be her most prized accomplishment; that she was able to pass along her belief in God and Jesus to us. I was honored to watch a church service with her on her last Sunday morning. It was a gifted sermon about prayer, reminding us not to pray for our wishes but for His will. There were countless things we wanted, for us or for our peace – to forgive us for our lack of time and service to her. I personally wanted more, to be better-to make sure she knew I loved and appreciated every sacrifice. The service closed with a great rendition of “Blessed Assurance” and it was emotional, He was humbling me to tears, while at the same time reminding me I was worthy. I was worthy of her love and His. And I know mom recognized that song with me and we felt it together. I am thankful of that last moment with her.

Mom taught us to serve others. Her faith led her to be a perfect example of service. Some time ago I read “The Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. It was a wildly popular basis of countless church study groups, for those of us trying to be better. However, mom did not actually need a book, guide or group to be better. She already was purpose driven. Her ordained path was clear. She showed us how to live well in service of others. When we were young, she spared no time for her own hobbies or activities, without a hint of a complaint she carted us wherever we needed to go. Even as adults she would drop everything to come to our aid. At work, in the church, in the neighborhood she was always looking for ways to help.

Mom taught us to love. Through kind words and actions, she defined and displayed love. She gave the type of support and encouragement throughout our lives that would make you feel taller than you are, more athletic, smarter…worthy of praise and accolades. The ultimate cheerleader, she continuously rooted for our success on the court or field, in academics, in our work and most importantly in our relationships. She shared with the nurses in the hospital that she knew we loved her and she knew we loved each other. It might just be the only thing she ever bragged about. I am so proud she knew this. Time and distance has no power over love.

Eighty-one years ago, the Good Lord lent us one of his angels. Last Sunday, he called her home. She was no doubt welcomed with open arms by Jesus and her relatives. I also have no doubt she heard “Well done, good and faithful servant!” She wouldn’t believe it, but she has bequeathed a grand legacy. Mom left us these traits I see in her children and grandchildren. They carry her sense of humor, her faith and her desire to help others. From humble beginnings in Chicago 81 years ago the Good Lord started a fire that would spread out into the world. Our aim now is to make sure we honor her through finding our path through His purpose. I have a prayer for myself and a challenge for all that knew her. I will pray each day and it will be some semblance of this:

Dear Lord, I want to thank you for the gift I had of such a great woman in my life. Please guard our hearts from the loss of her. I ask that you make me to be more like her, in service of others and to think less of myself. I ask that you instill her humility into my soul so that others may see the power of peace that true faith grants us. Lord help me to honor and build on her legacy through becoming the man she believed me to be. Give us the strength, courage and determination to always seek your will instead of ours. I ask all of this in the name of our savior and Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a foundation most meaningful to Sandra: the American Heart Association.