Susan Thomas, born February 16, 1954, passed peacefully on March 7, 2026, leaving a rich legacy of love, strength, and advocacy.

Susan is survived by her two children, Rebekah and Daniel Thomas, Jr. She was a mother full of fierce love and determination, always encouraging her children to never give up hope. Susan also leaves behind her brother Richard Risdon and her sister Elizabeth Riley.

Predeceased by her husband, Daniel Thomas, Sr., whom she married in 1976, she also grieves for her parents, Dr. Edward and Frances Risdon, her sisters Mary and Martha Risdon, and her grandmother, Mary Simpson. She was also predeceased by her loving in-laws, Alice and Thorton Thomas.

Dedicating her professional life to the care of others, Susan served as a Disabled Adolescent & Adult Classroom Teacher's Assistant in 1984. In 1989, she expanded her nurturing vocation to become an In-Home Caretaker for Disabled Children and a cherished neighborhood mom. Her passionate advocacy for the disabled led her to support the Shriners Hospital and John G. Leech School.

Susan had an unwavering determination and a fierce will, especially when it came to her family. She often quoted a motto told to her by a doctor at Dupont Children's Hospital: "You have to cradle them with one hand and push them away with the other." True to her nurturing spirit, she somehow always ended up as everyone's mom: Classroom Mom, Neighborhood Mom, Go-to Mom in College.

Not just a compassionate caregiver, Susan also had a zest for life. She revelled in music from Heart, The Doobie Brothers, Queen, Deep Purple, Yes, KISS, Lonestar, Phil Vassar, to Montgomery Gentry. An avid reader, she adored Nora Roberts and roses-themed works. When it came to TV, she enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and Glee, and her favorite performances were any musicals.

Her lessons and memories, particularly her accomplishments in teaching those with disabilities to be as independent as they can within their abilities, will be etched in the hearts of all who knew her. Susan's spirit of perseverance, empathy, and selfless love will continue to guide us.

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