Susan Duarte

Sue was born July 18th, 1950 in West Hollywood, CA to Alvin “Bud” and Phyllis Terry DeLong. She graduated from Orem High School in 1968. Years later she returned to school and graduated with honors from California State University, Sacramento earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. Sue continued with her education and graduated from Arizona State University in 1997 with a Master’s Degree in Social Work.

When Sue was young, her family moved from California to Utah to be close to family. She was an active child who loved to dance and play with the animals on her grandparents’ farm. Her love of dance stayed with her through high school where she was privileged to be a member of the Tigerette Marching Squad.

In January of 1969, Sue married James E. Duarte and they were blessed with 2 daughters. However, she and Jim divorced in 1995.

At the age of 26, Sue was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. She battled the debilitating disease every single day, but vowed to never let it get the best of her. Through her struggles, Sue was always there for her children, participating in and chaperoning their activities as moms love to do. She also went back to school for a chance to help herself and others. After obtaining her Master’s Degree, she enjoyed working with children, specializing in play therapy. Unfortunately, deteriorating health forced her to “retire” in 2006. She was lucky enough to stay busy volunteering her time at local grade schools and at Mercy Gilbert Hospital.

Throughout Sue’s life, she fought every day to live normally. She loved to crochet, travel, shop, dine out, take her puppies on walks, and most importantly, spend time with her girls. Nothing brought her more joy than to be with her family.

Sue is survived by her 2 daughters – Raquel (Tim) Welge of Gilbert, Arizona and Yvonne (Derrick) Messer, also of Gilbert, Arizona; 1 sister – Kay (Doug) Guidry of Palm Desert, California; 1 niece – Nicole (TJ) Flowers of San Antonio, Texas and 1 nephew – Chris (Gabi) Deamos of San Clemente, California. She was also blessed with 3 great nephews – Jaden Flowers, Cameron Deamos & Nicholas Deamos.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Bud & Phyllis DeLong.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 4th, 2017 at 1pm at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park 400 S. Power Road, Mesa, AZ. 85206. Inurnment and reception to follow.

Memorial contributions may be made, in Sue’s name, to the Arizona Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation and Amputee Coalition of America.

Arrangements under the direction of Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, Mesa, AZ.