Susan Thompson

Born November 29, 1952, in Santa Monica, California, Susan was the second of four children born to Donald and Jane Howland. She grew up in Santa Monica and lived there until 1981. On September 26, 1975, she married Kirk J. Thompson, with whom she shared nearly 51 years of marriage.

Susan earned her bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College and began a career centered on the well-being of children. She taught preschool, operated a family child care program in Redding, served as a Head Start home visitor, and directed Big Brothers Big Sisters.

After earning her Master of Social Work from Sacramento State, Susan counseled pregnant women at Mercy Redding’s prenatal clinic while completing the clinical hours required to become a licensed clinical social worker. She later served as an infant mental health specialist with Northern Valley Catholic Social Services and provided services through the Shasta County Office of Education.

Susan also shared her knowledge and experience by teaching early childhood education at Shasta College and Simpson University. She mentored social workers completing their clinical hours and contributed her time and expertise to boards and community organizations throughout Shasta County.

Her commitment to children and families extended to her writing. She published parenting articles locally, and her interest in family history inspired her to create a genealogy book—a lasting gift for future generations.

Outside of her work, Susan loved traveling with Kirk, exploring national parks, and camping in their fifth-wheel trailer. She especially enjoyed the national parks of Utah and camping along Oregon’s Rogue River, one of her favorite places to spend time.

Susan passed away three days before her and Kirk’s 51st wedding anniversary. She is survived by her husband, Kirk; her daughter, Nadia, and son-in-law, Jonathan; her grandsons, Matt and Colin; and her sisters, Elizabeth and Sarah.

A memorial service celebrating Susan’s life will be held at Lawncrest Chapel in Redding on November 14 at 2 p.m. All are welcome to gather, share memories, and honor her life.