Susan Lynne Clark

Susan Clark, age 71, passed away on February 27, 2026.

Born on October 17, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio, Susan spent most of her childhood in Atlanta and Birmingham — places that helped shape the sharp mind and warm wit she would become known for. She attended the University of Montevallo and the University of West Georgia, continuing a lifelong pattern of curiosity and quiet determination.

Susan served many roles in her life, not the least of which was devoted mother to her five children. She was incredibly smart, deeply introspective, and quietly observant — but it was her sense of humor that carried her through life’s many trials and hardships. To know Susan was to know laughter. She could make a room lighter just by being in it and she had a gift for funny nicknames for nearly everyone and everything. She was warm, loving, and thoughtful — humble in her sacrifices and generous in spirit.

Professionally, Susan was gifted in her roles in administration and office management across various healthcare settings. She provided steady care and thoughtful attention to patients, doctors, and staff alike. Her colleagues enjoyed working with her and appreciated her reliability, warmth, and keen attention to detail.

Susan made each of her children and grandchildren feel uniquely seen and cherished, as though they were the only ones in the room. Known affectionately as “C’Mama” to her grandchildren, she delighted in getting on their level — making funny faces, using silly voices, and creating moments that made them feel completely special. She loved to shop, especially for her kids and grandkids, finding joy in giving. Lunch outings, birthday celebrations, and holiday gatherings were treasured rituals. Gift giving and quality time were her love languages. Though private and reflective by nature, she valued connection and always worked to stay involved in the lives of those she loved. She was the glue that held her family together.

Susan is survived by her husband of 20 years, Wayne and their precious Italian greyhound, Terra; her daughter Julie Foster (Dale); her son Michael Nail; her daughter Lori Gardner (Chuck); her son Brian Nail (Kaitlan); and her cherished grandchildren Aslan, Josiah, Charlie, and Ellie. She is also survived by her bonus children, Amy (Jeff), Brian (Melissa), and Jay (Kailee); and bonus grandchildren, Katelyn (Michael), Dylan (Janie), Liam, Finn, and Frankie (great-grandchild). She is also survived by a sister and brother. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Barbara Radtke, and by her beloved son, Timothy D. Nail, with whom she looked forward to reuniting.

Her life was marked not by grandiosity, but by presence — by humor in hardship, by loyalty, by sacrifice, and by love freely given. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the laughter she leaves behind. We take comfort in the assurance that she is now at peace in Heaven, reunited with those who have gone before her, and one day we will see her again.

A celebration of life will take place at a future date. We welcome the sharing of any memories, thoughts, and feelings regarding our beloved Susan - wife, mom, C'Mama, sister, friend.