Susannah Bridges Smith

In addition to her father, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Jason Smith.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her daughters: Rachael Stern, Lara Blair Denner (David Denner), Elizabeth “Liz” Bridges, Rachel Loberger (Griffen Bernhard), and Heather Loberger. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Sophia Blair, Agatha Blair, Lyric Keatts, Dahlia Loberger-Rose, Atlas Loberger-Rose, and Rivka Stern. Surviving siblings include Stephanie Bridges-Bledsoe (William Bledsoe) of Winston-Salem, NC, her brother, David “Kris” Bridges of Martinsville, VA, and her half-brother, Rick Lawson (Donna Lawson) of Wilmington, NC.

Susannah was a force to be reckoned with – a writer, book-lover, and avid reader. She was also a dancer, seamstress, and historical garment craftswoman with pieces hanging in museums, as well as a geographer, naturalist, and public servant. For the last six years, she held the position of Construction Coordinator for the City of Lynchburg Parks and Recreation Department, managing many large development projects, including the Riverside Park Overlook and Ivy Creek Suspension Bridge, as well as improvements to the city's extensive trail system. Susannah loved her work and her co-workers there. She held a multitude of certifications in her field and operated an independent publishing company, which focused on highlighting the voices of underrepresented authors. However, her role as a mother and Mimi to her grandchildren is where her true heart lay. Her gentle yet playful spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A celebration visitation will be held at Whitten Timberlake Chapel, 7404 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg, VA, 24502, on May 14, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A graveside service will take place at Presbyterian Cemetery, 2020 Grace St, Lynchburg, VA, 24504, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, following the celebration visitation service at Whitten Timberlake Chapel.