Susan Rice Cafaro

Susan Rice Cafaro, age 79, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024. She was born on July 8, 1945, in NAS Olathe, KS to Marjorie and Russell Rice. Because her father was career Navy, the family made many wonderful memories wherever they were stationed. Susan’s favorite place to live was Guantanamo Bay, Cuba while she was in high school. She has even kept in touch with many of her friends.

After graduating from Sterling High School in Stratford, NJ, she attended Virginia Tech, St. Johns River Junior College, Jacksonville University, and The University of North Florida. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught in both Orange Park, FL and Perth Amboy, NJ. She later enjoyed working in the library at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts until she retired.

Susan was married to Jim Cafaro for over 55 years and for many of those years she was a stay-at-home mom to their three children, David “Tony”, Alex, and Katy. She was very involved in their lives both in and out of school. Susan was a member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood and was charter member of her chapter. Susan loved a variety of crafts. She was an avid reader and puzzle enthusiast. Susan managed to acquire many collectibles, especially clocks. She loved traveling and researching her family’s genealogy. Lastly, Susan, supported both Virginia Tech and The University of Florida sports, and loved watching PGA golf.

Susan was preceded in death by both her father and mother. She is survived by her husband, James Cafaro, sons, David “Tony” Cafaro (Cindy) and Alex Cafaro (Kristen), daughter, Katy Joson (Eric), three grandsons, Evan Cafaro, Justin Cafaro, and Eric Joson, sister, Nancy Hill (Joe) and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family appreciates all the love, prayers, calls, cards, flowers, and thoughtful gestures they have received during Susan’s declining health. It has meant so very much to them. They would also like to thank the medical personnel for all the loving care Susan received from them.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to Hospice of North Florida.

Her immediate family will meet at The National Cemetery for her Internment. Then in the new year, the family will hold a “Celebration of Life” (Scottish Wake) in Susan’s honor. More news about this to come.