She was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and shortly thereafter moved with her family to Midland, Michigan. She graduated from Midland High School and eventually earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. Committed to professional growth, she later completed an MBA from University of Michigan.
Susan enjoyed a long and successful career in the automotive industry, working for Oldsmobile and later General Motors.
Susan met her husband, Bill Lee, while Bill was judging cat shows. Their long-distance relationship resulted in an in-person meeting in October 1997 and an engagement shortly thereafter. They were married the following May.
Susan became a cat show judge as well, after many years of breeding, and together she and Bill shared a remarkable life centered around their love of cats and travel. The two traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada judging cat shows, and their judging included much international travel to Europe, Russa, Japan and many other countries.
Their shared adventures also included vacation travel they treasured deeply: an African safari, Australia and New Zealand, and many stays in Mexico and Hawaii.
After Bill’s passing in 2019, Susan found comfort and companionship in her beloved collie, Dolly. In her later years, her cats and her dog were especially dear to her and remained a constant source of joy and connection.
Susan is survived by her sister Patricia Fagley; nieces: Lynn Marie Guthrie-Libby and Amy Keyes. She was preceded in death by her husband: William “Bill” Lee; siblings: Rick Fagley and Barbara Guthrie.
A Celebration of Susan’s Life will be held in May 2026 in East Hartford, Connecticut. Interment at Glendale Cemetery in Okemos.
Please consider a contribution in memory of Susan Jean Lee to the Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine Memorial/Honorary Gift Program, Feline Health and Well Being Fund, Veterinary Medical Center, F & G wings, 784 Wilson Road Rm F-130 East Lansing, MI, 48824
