Susan Lynn Williamson was a woman of fierce love, unwavering faith, and an unbreakable spirit. Born into a humble family on June 10, 1964, Susan was one of seven children, and from an early age, she learned the value of family, resilience, and laughter. Her life was a testament to the power of love, service, and faith, and her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Susan’s childhood was marked by both hardship and joy. Growing up in a poor family, she and her siblings faced challenges that would have broken many, but Susie’s strength and determination shone through. She was a tomboy at heart, spending her days playing with go-carts, dirt bikes, and building treehouses. One such adventure earned her the nickname “Hammerhead” when the head of a hammer flew off its handle and struck her in the head, claw first. It was a moment that encapsulated her fearless and adventurous spirit.
But Susie was more than just a tomboy—she was a consummate prankster with a mischievous sense of humor. One of her most memorable pranks involved her older sister, Helen. While Helen was engrossed in a scary movie, perched on a backless stool, Susie and a neighborhood kid crept up to the windows on either side of the TV and jumped up, startling Helen so badly that she fell backward off the stool. It was a moment of pure, unbridled laughter that Susie would recount with a twinkle in her eye for years to come.
Susan’s life was not without its trials. The loss of her parents, Russell and Shirley, at a young age was a devastating blow. She and her siblings were placed in foster care and separated for periods of time, but Susie’s love for her family never wavered. She was a fierce defender of her siblings, always fighting to keep their bond strong. Susie took on a protective role, especially for her younger siblings, Mark and Sheri. During their time in foster care, she became their advocate and shield, ensuring they felt loved and supported even in the most difficult circumstances. That bond became unbreakable, a testament to their shared resilience and love.
Though Susan was unable to have children of her own, she poured her love into her nieces and nephews, treating them as if they were her own. Susie was a second mother to so many, offering guidance, support, and unconditional love. Whether it was attending school events, offering a shoulder to cry on, or simply being there to celebrate their achievements, Susie embraced her role as a mother figure with open arms and an open heart. Her nieces and nephews—Dustin, Donna, Crystal, Derrick, Amanda, Rachel, Ashley, Brandon, Seth, Wesley, and Emily—were her pride and joy, and she loved them fiercely, just as a mother would.
Susan’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of Zion Apostolic Tabernacle, where she lived out her faith through acts of service. Susie drove the church van, ensuring that members of her congregation could attend services and events, no matter their circumstances. Her servant’s heart mirrored the example of Jesus, who taught us to love and serve others selflessly. Whether it was driving people to appointments, offering support during court hearings, or simply being a listening ear, Susie lived out her faith in every aspect of her life. Her passion for God was evident in everything she did, and she found strength and comfort in her relationship with Him.
For over 25 years, Susan was a dedicated employee of Walmart, where she touched the lives of countless coworkers and customers. Her hard work, kindness, and commitment to excellence were a reflection of her character. She approached her work with the same love and dedication she showed her family, and her presence at Walmart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her there.
Susan was preceded in death by her husband, Jessie, with whom she shared many years of partnership and mutual support. Together, they navigated life’s challenges and joys, creating a bond that was rooted in respect, understanding, and shared purpose. She was also preceded in death by her cherished sisters, Lora, Marsha, and Helen, and her parents, Russell and Shirley.
Susan is survived by her loving siblings: Carol (Eddie) Lucas, Sheri (Craig) Smith, and Mark (Ginger) Smith. She also leaves behind her adored nieces and nephews: Dustin Reed, Donna Vasquez, Crystal (Rueben) Delarosa, Derrick (Danielle) Smith, Amanda Rule, Rachel Rule, Ashley (David) Lemelin, Brandon McKinzie, Seth (Samantha) Bundy, Wesley Smith, and Emily (Ben) Clevenger. Her legacy of love extends to her many great-nieces and nephews and her great-great nieces and nephews, who brought her immense joy and pride. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy of love, laughter, and faith lives on through them.
As we remember Susan, we are reminded of the words of **Psalm 34:18**: *“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”* Susie’s life was a reflection of this truth. Despite the hardships she faced, she never lost her faith or her ability to love deeply.
In **John 14:27**, Jesus says, *“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”* Susan’s life was a testament to this peace—a peace that comes from knowing and trusting in God.
The song *Fear Is Not My Future* by Brandon Lake reminds us that “death is not the end, You are.” These words resonate deeply as we celebrate Susie’s life. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the faith she embodied. Death is not the end for Susan, for she is now in the presence of her Savior, where there is no more pain, no more sorrow, and no more separation.
Susan Lynn Williamson was a woman of extraordinary strength, love, and faith. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire us all. May we honor her memory by living with the same courage, compassion, and joy that she brought to the world.
Friends may visit 5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 27, 2025 at Goodwin Funeral Home, 200 S. Main St., Frankfort. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2025 at the funeral home with Pastor Orellana and Brother Hackler officiating. Burial will be in Bunnell Cemetery, Frankfort. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the Clinton County Humane Society, P.O. Box 455, Frankfort, IN 46041. Please visit goodwinfuneralhome.com, where you may leave a condolence for the family.
Rest in peace, dear Susie. Your love lives on in us, and we take comfort in knowing that death is not the end—You are.
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