Susan Duke Brackett

Susan Duke Brackett, of Charlotte, NC was born in Presbyterian Hospital on October 1, 1954 to David Arthur Duke and Mary Blanche Johnson Duke. She was a graduate of West Mecklenburg High School, Class of 1972 and alumna of Queens College.

Susan touched the lives of everyone she met. She was generous, genuine, and full of life—always bringing people together and lifting them up. Her presence was magnetic, and her kindness, unwavering.

Most of Susan’s life was spent as a dedicated community volunteer. Her first volunteer job was at the nature museum during the summer of 8th grade. She went on to become President and Chairman of the Symphony Guild of Charlotte, Charlotte Symphony Board Member, President of Parents’ Association of Providence Day School, room parent for 14 years, Advisory Board of Providence Day School for 8 years, Ladies Tennis Association Chair and 9-hole Entertainment Chair at Carmel Country Club, Chairman of the Academy of Fine Arts, council member of Christ Lutheran Church, Sunday School teacher for 14 years, a tutor with Communities in Schools, Thompson Children’s Home, and Junior League of Charlotte, Vice President of Marketing and President of Assistance League of Charlotte. She got far more back from giving than she gave.

Susan loved playing tennis, skiing, and mahjong. She loved to play, and she loved to win, but most of all, she valued the friendship of the women she spent her time with. They had fun and were great friends.

She was married to Ralph Blair Brackett for 45 years. He was her anchor, cheerleader and best friend. Susan is survived by her brother David Duke (Mary-Ann), daughters Rachel Brackett Nystrom (Steve), Deb Brackett Disney (Kep), and Tanya Brackett Evans, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren and her beloved nieces and nephews. Not many people walked away from a conversation with Susan without learning about her family and her love for them.

Susan had a happy heart with a smile on her face most of the time. She woke up every morning grateful for a new day, the gifts she had been given and the ability to get up, get dressed and hit the ground running. She lived a good life; she had a great family and wonderful friends. She was a lover of good food, naps, pets and her garden. She spent much of her life looking after her family and homes and is happy to return to her forever home with her Creator. “Don’t be sad I am gone. We will see each other again. I had a blast!”

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held at her home on Saturday, June 28th. Susan loved flowers, so send them, but she would also like you to remember her by donating to Via Health Partners of Charlotte – Hospice, the Assistance League of Charlotte, or Christ Lutheran Church. They are doing good things for those in need within the Charlotte community, and they could use your help.

Online condolences may be shared at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com