Susan L. Stotts

Surrounded by the love of her daughter, Susan “Sue” Stotts, transitioned home on the morning of April 11th, 2025. She was 66 years old.

Sue loved her people. Whether she was spending hours on a diamond painting as a gift for Christmas, creating a play scenery for her sister’s birthday, making an ornament for a friend, or simply sitting with someone through their darkest moments, Sue believed in showing up creatively, but most importantly, she just believed in showing up.

Sue was born on May 3, 1958, in Chicago, IL to Catherine and Leo Stotts. She was the second born of four girls; Terri, Sue, Sharyn, and Ann. Sue loved her sisters dearly, and prioritized seeing them and their families as often as she could, even in her final days.

She loved the warmth of the summer, tending to her garden, and grilling out. Sue enjoyed creating a welcoming space for family and friends to gather for holidays; and always looked forward to the next gathering, doing all she could to make those around her feel special and seen. And, of course, picking out the perfect outfit.

Sue’s life changed forever on October 10th, 1992, when she had her daughter, Jada. Jada was Sue’s most precious gift, and Sue treasured the moments she spent supporting her. Whether it was cheering her on through sports at a young age, traveling to Tennessee to watch her play college volleyball, or their daily phone calls, Sue made sure Jada always knew she was supported, loved, and cared for. She also made sure Jada knew when she made a mistake during a game by giving her “the glare” and yelling from the stands. She wouldn’t admit it then, but Jada knew it made her stronger. That was what Sue taught Jada every day, to stay strong for the people around you.

Sue often introduced herself as “Jada’s Mom” to those she met, because that was the most important title she carried. Those who loved Sue most should likely start calling Jada “Sue’s Daughter”, because Jada couldn’t have asked for a better mother.

Sue was a beautiful soul with the natural inclination to stand up for injustice and give a voice to the voiceless. She was deeply loyal, always willing to forgive; and was never scared to share her opinion. Especially when it came to style; and Sue’s was incredible. Whether it was telling her sister, Ann, that she needed to brush her hair, or her sister, Terri, that she needed to get rid of a skirt, Sue told her truth to those she loved because that’s who she was. While they may not have loved it at the time; they will definitely miss her commentary.

Sue endured a long road with cancer. First diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, the cancer unfortunately came back 10 years later. It had metastasized to bone cancer, and eventually spread to her brain. She spent the next two years fighting; going from chemotherapy to radiation, scans and appointments; but her spirit remained strong and full of fire. She often shared her gratitude for the many family members who supported her through her fight; specifically naming her nephew Billy and his wife Jen, her cousins Robert, Debby, and Cathy, but most of all, her sisters, Terri and Ann, for providing support day in and day out. It took a village, and Sue believed she had the best.

Sue is survived by her daughter, Jada, her three sisters, Terri, Sharyn, and Ann (Harry), nephews, Billy (Jen), Jesse, Travis (Dominique), and James, niece Carol, great-nieces, Kayleigh, Angel (Christian), Celeste, Delaney, and Tess, great-nephews William and Haiden and many loving cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Catherine and Leo Stotts, and adored nephew Johnny Stotts.

We will miss Sue every single day; but have found comfort in the hope that she’s reunited with her Mother and Johnny – eating pizza, catching up, and keeping a good eye on the rest of us.