Susan Ellen Spence

She was born in Atlanta to the late Gregory Bateman and Anne Chambless and grew up there, attending Arlington School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and her master’s from Georgia State University.

She was married to James E. Spence Jr., and they lived in Brookhaven, where they raised two daughters. As a mother, she was deeply involved in her children’s upbringing and loved sharing experiences with them, often taking them to ballets, museums, and concerts.

In her professional capacity, Susan was a licensed professional counselor who devoted her career to helping others. She worked for the state in several capacities, including at the DeKalb County Mental Health Center, before entering private practice, where she cared for her clients until 2018.

Above all, Susan was truly a presence—everyone who met her ended up loving her. She had a contagious laugh, and she lit up whenever someone new walked into the room. She loved people—especially the quirky ones—and found humor in everyday life, bringing warmth and joy to those around her.

She is survived by her husband, Jim (79); daughters, Anna (40) and Katherine (37); two siblings, Needham (Joyce) Bateman of Dunwoody and Betsy (Rod) Canfield of Athens; and two nieces and a nephew.

She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew and loved her.