Susan Lyon Tarleton, a shining beacon of warmth, vibrancy, and dedicated spirit, passed onto the next life peacefully on March 12, 2026. Born in 1947, Susan's presence on Earth was a great gift, as she touched countless lives with her giving heart and unwavering dedication to helping others.

A long time Woodland, CA resident, Susan leaves behind a rich legacy of kindness. Her life lessons and principles were profound and simple, and above all, centered on the importance of lending a helping hand.  She was immensely active in her local, regional and national church, holding various roles over many years and caring deeply for the ministry.  Through this involvement she made countless connections throughout the years and touched many lives, creating a ripple effect that will continue for years to come.  

Throughout her life, Susan supported many charities and volunteered for numerous opportunities in the community with a humble spirit that came naturally from her heart.  She was also the type of person that could make a connection anywhere she went and had a remarkable ability to maintain many meaningful friendships throughout her life.  She loved traveling (especially ocean settings), her morning coffee and spending quality time with family and friends.

Early in her career she worked at Greengate School in Woodland, a Special Education Center where her natural kindness and patience played a vital role.  One of her greatest accomplishments was navigating the challenges of single parenthood while completing her college education and earning her degree in Social Work, which led to her employment with Yolo County.  For nearly the last 20 years of her career, she served as the Administrator for a low-income senior housing facility - Margaret McDowell Manor in West Sacramento, where she left a lasting impression of compassion, leadership and kindheartedness. In every role she was in, whether in be in her career or personal life, she always strived to give a little bit extra through thoughtfulness and innate ability to care.

Susan will be profoundly missed by many. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Sarah Tarleton Jones, and her brother, David Lyon. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions are being raised for "Women for Women International", an organization close to Susan's heart and aligned with her dedication to empowering women worldwide. To make a donation, please visit the memorial website - https://everloved.com/life-of…. In honoring Susan's memory, we will be supporting a cause that she profoundly believed in, continuing her legacy of kindness and compassion.

Susan's departure has left an unfillable void, but her spirit and life lessons will continue to inspire us to live with love, openness, and generosity. May her soul rest in eternal peace. Her memory will linger in the scent of freshly baked cookies - a labor of love Susan delighted in sharing with others.

A celebration of Susan's life will take place on May 30, 2026, at 10:30am at the Christian Church of Woodland. Immediately following the service, a lunch reception will follow at the Woodland Elks Lodge. An RSVP is required to help provide an accurate headcount and can be completed on the memorial website at:  https://everloved.com/life-of….

We invite you to this heartfelt tribute and remembrance of a life well-lived, reflecting Susan's love for community, fellowship, and service. Please come as you are, but we encourage you to wear her favorite color 'pink' which represents her warmth, kindness and loving spirit!

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