Susan Wray Trudell

Susan Wray (Nelson) Trudell was born September 2, 1955, in Turlock, CA and on May 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, entered peacefully and without pain into the waiting arms of her Lord.

Susan is survived by the people she cherished most: her daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer (Trudell) and Ronald Hackett of Meriden, CT; her son, Nicholas Trudell of Bolton, CT; and her bonus daughter, Amy Ingram of Lakewood, WA. She adored her three grandsons—Allan Bell of Springville, UT, Brendon Trudell of Ellensburg, WA, and Raymond Hackett of Meriden, CT—who were the lights of her life. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother, Lillian (Burch) Nelson; father, Raymond Nelson; sister, Tammy Nelson; brother, Gary Nelson; and her best friend, Joanne.

Susan was incredibly proud of her 25 years of sobriety, a journey that transformed her life and allowed her to mentor and sponsor countless others on their own paths. Through sobriety, she found Jesus—her strength—whom she served with an open and loving heart. Her passion for helping others led her to earn her associate degree and serve as the director of Garden Gate Respite Center at Turning Point in Modesto, CA, where she found her calling and formed lifelong friendships.

A free spirit at heart, Susan loved traveling the country, playing BINGO and board games, and treating herself to freshly done nails – a highlight for her. Susan had a beautiful singing voice and a deep love for music which earned her a college scholarship. She was creative, finding joy in crafting ceramic and diamond art gifts for those she loved. Recently, she discovered a love for the theater and delighted in seeing as many shows as possible, with the pinnacle being a trip to Broadway to see Wicked.

Susan’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff and residents of Wright Residence, where she found comfort, independence, and meaningful friendships over the past two years. They also wish to thank the incredible team at Masonicare Home Health and Hospice for their unwavering support, ensuring Susan’s final months were filled with warmth and care. The family also wishes to thank her caregiver, Dora, from Franciscan Ever There Care, with whom Susan bonded instantly and who provided loving care and companionship.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Masonicare Home Health and Hospice or Lustgarten Foundation, supporting pancreatic cancer research by clicking the donation links below.

At Susan’s request, a memorial service will be held at her beloved home, The Wright Residence, 65 Masonic Ave. Wallingford, CT 06492 on Friday June 13, 2025 at 2:00PM.

To leave a message of remembrance for the family please visit: www.DellaVecchiaSouthington.com