Susan Maria Spaulding was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She transitioned peacefully surrounded by her children at Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside Hospital on February 1, 2023, after a tough fight battling MRSA pneumonia. She was 71 years old.
Susan was born to William and Victoria Santos on May 3, 1951, in Brooklyn, New York. After graduating high school, she attended St. Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, graduating in 1972. She worked as a nurse for several years before earning her most cherished title, Mom.
Susan loved the ocean and her favorite place to be was out on the water with her camera. She was vibrant and fun, mischievous with a twisted sense of humor and a contagious cackle. Susan’s favorite character was The Wicked Witch of the West, and her “I’ll get you, my pretty, and your little dog too!” imitation was unmatched.
She loved spending time in the kitchen, and was unofficially the best tuna salad maker this side of the Mississippi (her secret was cooking fresh-caught tuna in beer). Susan loved exploring new places, and her favorite trips included those to the Alps, the Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Cozumel, and St. Thomas.
But perhaps Susan’s most treasured times were the simple moments spent with her children and grandchildren. She cherished her time with them and was her happiest when “Mombo” was with “her chickens.”
Susan is survived by her two children, Brie (Jeff) Burge, and Joey (Jamie Pizer) Spaulding, four grandchildren: Christopher, Kellan, Aria, and Joey, Jr., sister, Nancy Reed, and nephew, Greg Reed. She was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather, Bob Gaus, and countless pets that she adored.
Susan’s family is forever grateful for the care and support provided by Betty Williamson, the St. Vincent’s ICU nurses, and Lillie Thomas.
A Celebration of Life honoring Susan will be held in her beloved Florida Keys at a future date.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgriversidefuneralhome.com for the Spaulding family.
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