Susan Marcelle Matheson

Susan was born in Jacksonville, Florida, where she lived until 1978, when she moved to Fernandina Beach. During her years in Jacksonville, she was an active member of the Duval County Volunteer Firefighters and made history as the first female volunteer firefighter, paving the way for many other women to enter the field.

As the mother of a daughter with special needs, Susan was a tireless advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Her dedication to this cause led her all the way to Washington, D.C., where she took her fight for equal rights and opportunities to Congress.

After moving to Fernandina Beach, Susan became an active and devoted member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. She participated in many aspects of church life, including Bible study, Centering Prayer, the choir, and Lay Eucharistic Ministry, along with numerous other activities that enriched her faith and her connection to the church community.

Following many years of service as an administrative assistant, Susan retired and opened a home daycare. There, she found great joy in caring for little ones, nurturing their growth, and making a lasting, positive impact on their lives.

Susan had a special love for animals, particularly cats, and shared her life with many feline companions over the years. She also cherished the beach, spending countless hours walking along the shoreline, collecting seashells and shark teeth.

One of Susan’s sweetest traditions was sharing her love of Publix key lime pie with her granddaughter, Rebecca. The two firmly believed that key lime pie belonged at every meal—even breakfast!

Susan will be remembered for her pioneering spirit, her tireless advocacy for others, her devotion to her faith and family, her love of children and animals, and her appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, courage, and love that will continue to touch the lives of those who knew her.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents, Blonnie and Marvin Ellis; her sister, Jean Gilmer; her daughter, Marion Kraan; her nephew, Paul Buscemi; and her niece, Pamela Borovsky.

She is survived by her sister, Nancy Buscemi (Tom); her son, Michael Mansell (Jill); her daughter, Jessica O’Bryan (John); and her adopted son, Adam Matheson. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Bryan, Thomas (Sophia), and Rebecca (Ryan); her great-grandchildren, Lawson, Jameson, Aurelia, William, Amora, Adeline, Luca and Judas; her nieces, Karen Casey (Brian), Laura Bowden (Mitchell), and Tammy Buscemi; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Susan will also be deeply missed by the many residents, staff members, and caregivers at Life Care Center of Hilliard, who became an important part of her life and loved her dearly. Their care, kindness, and affection brought comfort and companionship to Susan, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Susan had a special love for flowers and their beauty always brought her joy. In her memory, flowers received in her honor will be donated to Life Care Center of Hilliard, where they may continue to bring comfort, beauty and happiness to others.”