Susan Jean Smithson

April 6, 1953 – October 12, 2026

Susan Jean “Sue” Smithson, 73, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on April 6, 1953, in Tonawanda, New York, Sue lived a life defined by love, compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. She was a remarkable woman whose kindness, generosity, and genuine care for people left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Sue earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Maine at Farmington and later her master’s degree in education from the University of Maine. She also earned a certificate in educational administration through the University of Maine in Orono. Her commitment to learning reflected her lifelong belief in the power of education and the opportunities it creates for others.

Education was not simply Sue’s profession; it was her passion and calling. She dedicated more than four decades to education, including 24 years teaching at the Helen S. Dunn School in Greenbush, Maine, and more than 20 years with MSAD 31, where she served as both a special education teacher and then later the Special Education Director.

Sue always had a special place in her heart for the underdog. She was someone who stood up for those who needed someone in their corner, saw potential where others might have seen limitations, and believed everyone deserved the opportunity to succeed. This compassion and fierce determination carried naturally into her work in special education, where she became a tireless advocate for students and families, ensuring their voices were heard and their needs were met.

A strong, compassionate, and respected leader, Sue believed in doing more than what was expected. She devoted countless hours to school activities, committees, and initiatives that strengthened her schools and community. She never hesitated to give her time or talents to make things better for others. Throughout her career, she mentored countless educators, offering guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. She led with conviction, stood up for what she believed was right, and understood that true leadership was not about a title, but about the difference you made in the lives of others.

Beyond her many accomplishments, Sue had a wonderful zest for life. She was fun-loving, warm, and always up for an adventure. Whether exploring somewhere new, spending time with family and friends, or simply enjoying life’s everyday moments, she embraced life with enthusiasm and an open heart. She had a way of making time together special and creating memories that those who loved her will treasure forever.

Sue was also a talented rug braider whose beautiful creations reflected her creativity and patience. She treasured the friendships she built throughout her teaching career and especially looked forward to her monthly breakfast gatherings with fellow teachers, filled with laughter, stories, and decades of shared memories. She loved spending time on the beautiful beaches of South Carolina, enjoying the sunshine, ocean breezes, and time with those she loved.

Above all else, Sue’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, an extraordinary mother, a loving grandmother and great-grandmother, and a cherished sister. She was the heart of her family, a constant source of unconditional love, encouragement, wisdom, and strength. She was always there to listen, offer advice, celebrate life’s joys, and provide comfort through its challenges. Her family knew they could count on her, no matter what.

Sue taught her children some of life’s most important lessons, not simply through her words, but through the way she lived. She showed them the importance of hard work, integrity, kindness, standing up for others, and making a positive difference in the world. She demonstrated that strength and compassion could go hand in hand and that the greatest gift we can give others is our love, time, and support.

Sue shared 49 years of marriage with her beloved husband, William “Buz” Smithson III, who preceded her in death in November 2025. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories.

She is survived by her children, Brian (Boya) Smithson of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Megan (Rodney) Mack of Bluffton, South Carolina; her stepson, Bill (Cathy-Jo) Smithson of Greenbush, Maine; her sister, Cathy (Robert) Lolik of Hilton Head, South Carolina; and her brother, Bill (Yajun) Chestnut of Fremont, California.

She also leaves behind five beloved grandchildren, William “Will” Smithson V (Nora), Katherine Smithson, Gabrielle Smithson, Zack Smithson, and Amiyah Mack; and two cherished great-grandchildren, Tilian and Aurora Smithson.

In addition to her husband, Sue was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ella Mae Chestnut.

A Celebration of Life honoring Sue will be held over Memorial Day weekend in May 2027, bringing together family and friends to share memories, celebrate her remarkable life, and remember the love and laughter she brought to so many. Additional details will be shared as plans are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sue’s memory may be made to SAINT BERNARD RESCUE NETWORK. PayPal: alpinemastiffrescue@yahoo.com; Venmo: @Dawn-McMahon-5; or mail a check to SAINT BERNARD RESCUE NETWORK, Inc., 2141 Grubbs Mill Rd., Berwyn, PA 19312.

Sue’s legacy cannot be measured simply by her years or accomplishments. It lives on in the students she championed, the educators she mentored, the schools and community she helped strengthen, the friendships she nurtured, and the family she loved beyond measure.

She was a woman of remarkable strength and boundless compassion who spent her life believing in others, standing up for what was right, and making the world around her a better place. To her family, she was simply the best mom and grandmother anyone could ever hope for. Her love was unconditional, her support unwavering, and her influence immeasurable.

Her life was a blessing, her love was a gift, and her legacy will live on in the countless lives she made better.