Susan Leigh

Susan Leigh of Banning, California passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at the age of 80. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, she was the eldest daughter and one of five children of Charles and Dorothy Brunke.

Susan spent her formative years as part of a military family, residing in various states across America and even living for a time in the Philippines. This early exposure to different cultures likely fostered her lifelong love of travel and exploration.

On July 21, 1961, in Sunnymead, California, Susan married Donald Gross. Together they built a loving family with their two children, Laura Gross (Cortez) and Donald “Dino” Gross.

Throughout her rich and varied life, Susan pursued numerous passions and interests. She was an accomplished craftswoman, creating beautiful stained glass, hand-painted silk scarves, garden posts, pottery, and sewn items. Her artistic talents were matched by her love of adventure. Susan delighted in road trips across the United States, exploring Wisconsin, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and Oregon, among other destinations. She also treasured family vacations to Hawaii and journeys to Europe, where she immersed herself in diverse cultures, heritage and cuisine.

Susan’s professional life was equally diverse and impactful. She served as a teacher’s aide for the school district and held several positions with the County of Riverside. She obtained her license in manicuring and dedicated over three decades to the beauty industry applying acrylic nails. Later in her career, she became a physical therapist assistant, massage therapist, and drug and alcohol counselor, working with adolescents on probation in group homes. Her willingness to continually learn and grow professionally demonstrated her commitment to helping others.

Susan had a special fondness for animals, particularly her beloved dogs Sterling, Tiki, and Gorda Mae, who were cherished companions throughout different chapters of her life.

Susan is survived by her daughter Laura Cortez and son Don Gross (Nancy Dang); grandchildren Scotti Stewart (Jon Stewart) and Alec Cortez (Nichole Cortez); and great-grandchildren Jake, Adam, and Kinsleigh Stewart, and Leighton and Nash Cortez, who affectionately knew her as “Gigi.” She is also survived by siblings Dona Ziegler, Rick Brunke (Connie Brunke), and Mike Brunke (Lucy Norton), as well as numerous nieces and nephews who held her dear. Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and Charles Brunke, and her youngest brother, Bobby Brunke.

Susan’s warmth, creativity, and caring nature positively impacted countless lives. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and many beyond her immediate family came to regard her as their grandmother.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their sympathy and support during this difficult time. As a baptized Christian, Susan now rests in eternal peace.

A visitation will be held at Weaver Mortuary & Crematory, located at 1177 Beaumont Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223, on March 9, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The committal service will take place at Olivewood Memorial Park, located at 3300 Central Ave, Riverside, CA 92506, on March 10, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.