Susan S. Lewis

Susan Lewis lived life by following her heart and opening it to others. She passed away from cancer on March 25th, 2021, surrounded by love. She will live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who knew her, loved her and were inspired by her. 

Born in Honolulu, HI, in 1944, Susan grew up in Allentown, PA. She earned a degree in psychology and English, followed by a Masters of Occupational Therapy from the University at Buffalo. She then moved to Portland, Maine where she worked at Maine Medical Center, state services for individuals with developmental disabilities, and then in Portland schools and home health where she was passionate about doing all she could to support kids and families. After raising her two daughters in South Portland, she sold her house, bought a camper van, and started driving west. She’d pull over on the roadside to do job interviews via phone. Susan ended up in Salinas, CA after finding work in the area. 

For the next 17 years, she worked for the Monterey Office of Education and explored a new coast. She became very active in the local chapter of PFLAG, speaking on panels, advocating for inclusion and marching every year in the San Francisco Pride parade. There is no doubt that her efforts gave hope to many.  In 2017, she relocated one more time, this time to Chicago to be closer to family. 

Susan’s home, no matter where it was, was welcoming and filled with love and positivity. She led with kindness. She followed her instincts. She shared generously of her time, her resources and her heart. She studied issues that were important to her and took action effectively and fearlessly even as illness undermined her energy. She’ll be dearly missed and never forgotten.

Susan was predeceased by her parents Ernie and Helena Lewis, her oldest daughter Elizabeth Crockett Hixon and her siblings Jackie and Bud Lewis. She is survived by her daughter Amanda Crockett, daughter-in-law Annette Fiscelli, beloved grandson Levi Crockett, other family members and her amazing friends. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to your local food bank, or celebrate Susan with a simple act of kindness.

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