Susan Reed McSwain

Susan was born in Galveston, Texas on November 3, 1942. She loved to drive by the little yellow house with the garage apartment on Avenue N ½ whenever she visited Galveston. When she was a young child, her family relocated to Dallas, Texas where she spent her childhood; however, she spent most of her life in Houston, Texas where she raised her family and enjoyed a successful career for 35 years with Shell Oil Company. While working for Shell Oil, she fulfilled a promise she made to her “daddy” and completed her education by obtaining a Bachelor’s in Business Management at the age of 54. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Shell Greater Houston Alumni Association. She retired early from Shell early to help take care of her grandchildren and spend time with her family.

After she retired, she enjoyed traveling, reading, shopping, and adventures with her friends. As her mother would say, “she was born with her hat on and ready to go.” Her other hobbies included machine quilting and embroidery, an extensive dive into genealogy research which reunited her with her father’s side of her family as well as various clubs such as the “Red Hat Society” and her book clubs. She supported the theater arts and held season tickets to both Theater Under the Stars and the Strafford High School Playhouse for many years.

Susan was active in the P.E.O. International Organization, a Philanthropic Education Organization of women who work toward providing educational loans, grants, and subsidies for women to get their education. She served for many years and held several positions including, President of her local chapter. She also served on the Council of the Houston Area P.E.O., served as Corresponding Secretary and as President.

She had a full and active life, lots of friends, and a true passion for serving God and telling others about her faith. She was a commissioned Stephen Minister and Stephen Leader as well as a Deacon with Grace Presbyterian Church. In addition, she was a member of the Decibels handbell group. Her faith was the most important thing in her life, and she called upon Him to the end for strength and comfort.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Dave and Mildred Reed and her brother David Reed.

Susan is survived by her daughter Melissa Brisco of Houston, TX, her son Matthew McSwain and daughter-in-love Kara McSwain of Louisiana and her seven grandchildren: Noah Brisco, Brooke Brisco, Miller McSwain, Ashley McSwain, Kiley McSwain, Campbell McSwain, and Maggie McSwain and great-grandson, Bryson Brisco.

A memorial service for Susan will be held Friday, April 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Brookside Cypress Creek Chapel, 9149 Hwy 6 No, Texas 77095.