Suzanne Elena Cardinal

Suzanne Elena Cardinal, age 56, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at UNC Chapel Hill. Born on September 19, 1968, in Queens, New York, Suzanne is fondly remembered by countless dear friends across the United States, especially within creative, educational, and healing communities. Each one was deeply touched by her radiant warmth, artistic spirit, and the generous way she shared her gifts—leaving a lasting impact that continues to inspire.

The cherished daughter of Norman Shubinsky and Eleanor Cardinal Shubinsky, Suzanne was preceded in death by her beloved father. She is survived by her devoted son, Micah, of Mebane, North Carolina; her loving mother, Eleanor Cardinal, of Jericho, New York; and her brother, Paul Samuel Shubinsky, and his wife Roseanne, also of Jericho.

Suzanne was a woman of boundless heart and spirit—loving, devoted, and loved to connect to the people around her. As a talented writer, healer, yoga teacher, and treasured friend, she lived with purpose. Her passion for wellness and mindfulness guided many through transformative personal journeys, whether on the mat or in quiet conversation.

She found deep joy in the outdoors, embracing hiking, yoga, nature, travel, and the beach with reverence and delight. Duck Beach in the Outer Banks held a special place in her heart, especially in the memories she created there with her son, Micah—laughing, and savoring the simple beauty of life together.

Above all, Suzanne’s greatest devotion was to her son, Micah, whom she lovingly homeschooled with unwavering dedication. She nurtured his growth with patience, wisdom, and boundless affection—guiding him with both tenderness and strength. Together, Suzanne and Micah embarked on countless adventures: traveling, hiking, and exploring side by side, from the Grand Canyon to Mount Rushmore, and through the vibrant halls of museums and the sleek charm of exotic car showrooms. They also journeyed to chess competitions and educational explorations, where learning became a shared pursuit and joyful experience. Their bond was a living reflection of Suzanne’s heart—curious, warm, and full of love.

Her final message to the world came in the form of a quote she shared on Facebook by Brooke Hampton: “I think sometimes we just need an unplanned adventure, the open road with no map, and some peace and quiet to cleanse the chaos and the bullshit from our soul.”

May her soul be forever free, wandering in the beauty of the heavens and embraced by the endless open road of the universe.

Suzanne’s legacy lives on through the lives she enriched, the hearts she healed, and the love she shared so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Forever in our hearts and an angel forevermore, Suzanne Elena Cardinal September 19, 1968 – July 19, 2025

The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home in Cary, followed by a funeral service in the chapel at 6:00 p.m.

A dinner reception will be held immediately afterward hosted by her family.

Memorial tributes and messages of sympathy may be left by clicking the "Add a Memory" box below. Brown-Wynne of Cary is honored to serve the Cardinal family.