Susan Sunderland

1969 - 2024

Susan Sunderland
May 15, 1969 - December 6, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ms. Susan (Sims) Sunderland at the age of 55. Susan was born in Tampa, Florida, and had been a cherished resident of Wasilla, Alaska, since 2017. On December 6, 2024, she passed peacefully at Mat Su Regional Hospital after a long battle with kidney failure.
Susan's life was a testament to her passion for education and her unwavering dedication to helping others. She began her impactful career as a Teacher in 1992 in Tampa. She taught in Montana, Idaho, Washington, online for WGU, as well as developing an online curriculum. She transitioned to Assistive Technology, although she never really left the classroom. Susan left an indelible mark as a Specialist for the Matsu School District in Alaska, as her work transformed countless lives by ensuring all students had a "voice" to communicate with.
Susan's academic journey began at the University of Tampa, continued with earning a Master of Education degree from the University of South Florida. Susan remained committed to earning her Doctorate even while on sabbatical for her medical issues.
Susan leaves behind a legacy of love through her cherished family: her devoted daughter, Anabella Sunderland, beloved granddaughter, Grace Cloud, supportive son-in-law, Joe Cloud, all residing in Wasilla, Alaska, and her fiancé, James Patton of St. Cloud Florida. Susan also leaves behind her namesake Aunt Susan Rexrode, sister in law Stephanie Sims, nieces Melinda, Hailey, all of the Tampa Bay area, and extended family in Tennessee.
Beyond her professional life, Susan was an artist at heart. She found joy in arts and crafts, creating beautiful things wherever she went. Susan's vibrant spirit was infectious, lighting up rooms with her signature smile and joyous laugh. Her love of line dancing and cheerleading spilled over into every activity, which brought energy, laughter, and joy to all who knew her. She was proud to be a member of Delta Zeta at the University of Tampa, where her bubbly personality and warm, welcoming nature brought a smile to everyone she met.
A memorial service to honor Susan was held on March 1, 2025, at 1 p.m. Alaska time at Valley Funeral Home in Wasilla, Alaska, with Pastor Rick Cavens officiating. A live stream was on Susan and Anabella's Facebook pages as well as through Valley Funeral Homes. True to her adventurous spirit, Susan's ashes will find their eternal rest at Beluga Point in Alaska, Coeur d'Alene Lake in Idaho, and Tampa Bay in Florida.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in remembrance of Susan to the American Kidney Fund, which assisted Susan in her time of need at Give.KidneyFund.Org. Anyone wishing to send cards, gifts, or memorial donations directly to Susan's family may do so at PO Box 875071, Wasilla, Alaska 99687.
Susan Sunderland will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, faith, love, and laughter will continue to inspire and uplift us all.