Suzanne Cassavoy

Suzanne Cassavoy, a devoted wife, cherished mother, and beloved grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, at the William Childs Hospice House in Palm Bay, Florida. She was surrounded by her loving family, a testament to the incredible life she led and the enduring impact she had on those around her. Born on January 14, 1947, Livingston, Northern Rhodesia, Suzanne was the daughter of Jane and Richard Paterson. Suzanne's journey began with a rich tapestry of family and culture, setting the stage for a life filled with love, dedication, and unwavering compassion. After World War II, as a young child, she moved to the U.S. with her parents. She grew up in Barre, VT, attended public school, and graduated from Spalding High School in 1965. In high school, Sue was active in the Universalist Church, served as president of the Junior Woman’s Club, and was a Rainbow Girl. She attended Mary Fletcher School of Nursing and graduated in 1968, the same year she married her high school sweetheart, Robert, affectionately known as Rob. Their union was a shining example of enduring love and partnership, lasting a remarkable 58 years. Suzanne and Rob shared a bond that spanned 64 years, rooted in deep friendship and mutual admiration. Together, they cultivated a warm and nurturing home, centered on their three daughters, Jamie, Cara, and Gretchen. Suzanne's kindness and caring nature were the hallmarks of her character. She possessed a beautiful smile and a personality that endeared her to everyone she met. Her friends and family knew her as a fiercely protective figure, always ready to offer support and love to those who needed it most. Her legacy of compassion and empathy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Suzanne leaves behind her devoted husband and daughters, along with her beautiful grandchildren, Brahm, Lilia, Santiago, and Madelyn Rose, son‑in‑law Carlos, and sister Tracy. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Her caring spirit guided her into nursing, a career she embraced for 35 years. Sue worked in nearly every hospital department, though Labor and Delivery was always her favorite. She later served as a visiting nurse in the Manchester, VT area, driving her Jeep through snowy and muddy backroads to reach her patients in rural areas. In 1998, Sue and Rob moved to Birmingham, AL, for Rob’s work in the wine industry. Sue retired from nursing at that time but remained active in the community. She continued her commitment to service by volunteering with COSA as a guardian ad litem, supporting children in challenging court situations. She also served as a board member of the Shelby County Humane Society. Her commitment to animal welfare and her love of dogs led her to establish her own nonprofit in Birmingham, the Sadie Fund, named for a special adopted dog. To support the organization, she wrote and published “The Story of Henry”, a children’s book inspired by a beloved dog she rescued as a puppy. Sue enjoyed singing and listening to old jazz standards, loved to read, and using her hands to create beautiful objects like painted birdhouses. She was a fantastic cook and enjoyed cooking for her family and friends. Her kids and grandchildren remember the amazing birthday cakes and cookies she made every Christmas. After Rob retired from Vineyard Brands, they spent several years traveling and visiting their daughters and grandchildren. In 2022, they relocated to Melbourne, Florida, to be closer to their daughters, Cara and Gretchen. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the incredible staff of the William Childs Hospice House. Their compassion and care during Suzanne's final days provided comfort and peace to her and her family. To honor Suzanne's life and her commitment to the welfare of all living beings, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the William Childs Hospice House in her memory. The family will hold a private memorial to celebrate Suzanne's life and the profound impact she had on those around her. Suzanne's light will continue to shine brightly through the lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed but always remembered with love and admiration.