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Susan Gillespie Elliott
Susan Gillespie Elliott
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Susan Elliott Obituary
SUMMERFIELD — Susan Gillespie Elliott, 44, of 6605 Horseshoe Bend Court, Summerfield, N.C., died Friday, September 11, 2009. She was a beautiful, loving, valiant woman. Her courage shone out, and we will miss her presence among us.
Susan was born in Columbia, S.C., on March 26, 1965, to Tom and Sally Gillespie. Her sister, Emory, was thrilled to have a little sister. Her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins welcomed her into the family. We called her ‘glad eyes.'
In 1983, Susan graduated from Winyah High School in Georgetown, South Carolina, with her beloved classmates. She attended Salem College, where she made life-long friends, graduated in 1987 and was selected as a member of Mortar Board. Susan savored the friendship of her schoolmates and enjoyed working in many arenas including marine biology, interior design and the paper industry.
With great joy, she married Tim Elliott in 1990 and treasured the warm reception she received from his family. Tim and Susan had three awesome sons, Austin, Wesley and Julian. Together with Tim, Susan launched several philanthropic projects, most notably a medical relief effort in Kenya through their church and a creative endeavor called Peacehaven, a working farm which will provide permanent homes for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. Peacehaven will be the future home for their son, Julian.
Susan lived a joyful life. Although she had cancer, she showed us all how to live a large life that was loving and generous. She had a great appreciation for nature, gardening, beautiful things, critters, gourmet cooking, travel, art, rock music, fiber arts, sheep raising, beekeeping, mosaics, and liturgical art, and she shared these passions with her children and wider family. While Susan always had a strong religious faith, she found an impressive voice in later years. Through her impassioned speeches and her quiet acts of love, she inspired others to adopt her projects, which, with God's blessing, will continue to be beacons of light in a better world.
We, Susan's family, would like to thank Dr. Gustav Magrinat and his staff for all they did to extend her life, giving us many priceless days with her that we will cherish. We also thank Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro for helping our family give Susan great comfort and peace in her final days at home.
A celebration of Susan's life will be held on Tuesday, September 15, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 3906 West Friendly Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27410. An inspirational concert will begin at 1:30 p.m., followed by a worship service at 2 p.m.
The family will receive visitors after the service in the fellowship hall
They request that memorial contributions be made to Peacehaven Farm, P.O. Box 68, Whitsett, NC 27377, www.peacehavenfarm.org
Offer condolences at www. news-record.com/obituaries
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September 20, 2009
Dear Sally, Tom and family,
We want to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family during this very difficult time. We will continue to pray that God will give you peace.
Rose & Tim Tilley
Dixie Mackie
September 18, 2009
Once in a great while you meet someone that touches you and that touch fills a special place in your heart. Susan did that. When I first met her I was taken back because she radianted a smile from her heart to her eyes! So for just a moment in time, she entered my world and I was enriched by that. Like a shooting star, she blazed brightly and was gone too soon. But what a light she had within her, that she shared with so many.She had a great laugh and from time to time I would send her little things that I hoped would make her laugh. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
Caryle (Cam) Hardee
September 18, 2009
I am very saddened to hear this news. It's been years since I last saw Susan. We grew up in Statesville together, pretty much inseparable, we were the three musketeers. I have so many fond memories and just wished I knew she was only an hour away from me. I will remember her always and cherish every memory.
- Caryle (Cam) Martin Hardee
September 17, 2009
Tim and Family--
We just heard from Jane the sad news.
Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tom and Susan Campbell
Lewisburg, WV
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Katrina Garner
September 16, 2009
Through the many stories you shared, Emory, I felt that I knew Susan. You had a wonderful bond that will withstand this time of grief. Les and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your entire family. Love, Katrina and Les
September 15, 2009
Dear Tim ,Austin,Wesley and Julian
We were saddened by the news of Susans Passing.Our heartfelt condolences to all.The light of Susan's smile will ever shine in our hearts and minds.
Ron , Rise',and Katie Webb
Willson Williams
September 15, 2009
I was deeply saddened to hear of Susan's passing. We grew up together in Georgetown and went to church together at Georgetown Presbyterian Church. She always had a smile on her face and a warm and giving heart. It has been several years since I have seen her, but I was very impressed at her tribute. But not at all surprised at her accomplishments. God has taken her pain and suffering away and he will do that to you all as well. I know she will be missed by all and I am so glad that I had the chance to call her my friend. I will continue to pray for each of you in the days and months to come
Beth Williams
September 15, 2009
Tim, Austin, Wesley, and My "Little Man" Julian:
I am so sorry to hear about Susan's passing. I truly enjoyed the time I got to spend with your family as Julian's teacher and then CAP worker. Your entire family is in my prayers. I know Susan has truly blessed all of us. I feel honored to have known her. She was truly a blessing from God.
I know that God will give you strength and comfort through this time.
Love and Prayers,
Beth (Harrington) Williams
Myles Derison
September 15, 2009
With Deepest Sympathy
Trish Bryant
September 14, 2009
Tim,
I was so saddened to hear of Susan's passing. I never had the opportunity of meeting Susan, but her obituary shows what a special, caring and loving person she truly was. My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Brady Garner
September 14, 2009
Wesley & family,
Just want you to know you are all in my thoughts.
Fran Lilley
September 14, 2009
To Tim and Susans light of her life her children. She was a beautiful flower in the master Gardener program. Her delight and smile will be gratly missed.
Bob and Charlotte Roycroft
September 14, 2009
Bob and Charlotte Roycroft of Georgetown SC would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Tim, the boys, Tom, Sally, and Emory as well as all of Susan's family. Susan obviously impacted your lives in a way that will live on forever in your hearts.
DaShenna Huey
September 14, 2009
To Susan's Family,
I knew Susan through Master Gardeners and had the chance to work with her a little last year. She was a very sweet and happy person. I was always struck by the twinkle in her eyes. Every time I saw her, she was always smiling. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Stewart & Grace Ellis
September 14, 2009
Tim: Love and prayers with you all! Susan was filled with inspirational courage! Grace and peace, Stewart & Grace
Ellen Ashley
September 14, 2009
To the Elliott family,
I knew Susan through our Guilford County Master Gardener Program. She was a joy to be around and an inspiration to all of us. Those of us who knew her as a garden enthusiast and friend are profoundly saddened. My condolences and deepest sympathy to your family. I hope her dream lives on through Peace Haven Farm.
Ellen Ashley
Shawn & Lois Dewese
September 14, 2009
Tim, I am so very sorry for your loss. We will be praying for you and the boys in the days ahead.
Rachelle David
September 14, 2009
Tim, Austin, Wesley, Julian and Elliot Family; Tom and Sally; Emory, Bob, TH and Raina--My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you during this difficult time of loss. Susan was an incredible person and was able to accomplish many great and awe inspiring things, along with her family in her life. I am glad that I was able to meet her when our family was vacationing in South Carolina. I remember sharing wonderful food and great conversation while at the beach house. Know that our prayers continue to be with you all and we are very saddened by her loss.
Sue Service
September 14, 2009
Dear Tom, Sally, Tim, Austin, Wesley and Julian,
I am so saddened for your loss. Susan was such an amazing person - she was the very definition of vivacious - I think her photo was next to the definition in the dictionary. Susan was my housemate in Pawley's Island many years back. I so clearly remember her joy and excitement when Tim proposed.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this sad and difficult time.
Pete & Paula Hendrick
September 14, 2009
Tim and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. Susan was so very special and will be greatly missed by so many. Our deepest sympathy to you and all of her family.
September 14, 2009
To all of Dear Susan's family,
I am for once at a loss for words. I send my love and prayers to each of you. Susan was amazing in so many ways. What a battle she fought and how inspiring she has been to so many.
All my love,
Carol Jayroe
Jenna Jordan
September 14, 2009
Tom and Family -
I am so saddened for you loss. I am praying for peace within your family and especially with Susan's boys.
Much love is being sent your way!
Nancy Seay
September 14, 2009
Tom and Sally and Tim and family, Please know that we who knew Susan were enriched by her friendship. She was such a beautiful, energetic woman. I will be praying for you and asking God to give you comfort in the days ahead.
Millie & L.C. Sloan
September 14, 2009
Dear Tom, Sally and Elliott family. We are heart broken at your loss, and our prayers and thoughts go out to you during this sad time. Know that we love you, and ask God to wrap his arms around you and comfort you always
Mildred and L. C. Sloan
Jade Larkin
September 14, 2009
Tim,
I have been so very blessed to know you, Susan and your wonderful boys. The love and devotion that Susan and your family have demonstrated to each other and those in need is inspirational. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys during this difficult time.
Much love,
Jade
Cheryl Collins
September 14, 2009
Tim & family,
Know that we are keeping each of you in our thoughts and prayers. Susan was so very special to so many people...cherish her memories as she will always live on in your hearts.
Blessings,
Cheryl, Tony & Taylor
Keith Wilson
September 14, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May God bless you and comfort you in your time of need.
September 14, 2009
She was a very vibrant member of our class at Salem. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susie Spearman
McRoy Skipper
September 14, 2009
Tom; Sally, & Elliott Family -
My thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time. May God provide the comfort and peace that each of you need to endure.
Cliff McCowan
September 14, 2009
Dear Tim and Boys,
You are in our thoughts and prayers, We will keep you in the light
Cameron,Chandler And Cliff
Valerie Dodd
September 14, 2009
I will miss Susan so much...and seeing you too,Tim. Being allowed to take care of Susan has been a blessing,a joy and delight, especially since there were so many times she was a "captive audience " to my stories. I will be remembering you and your family in prayers and thoughts. Please keep in touch. Love, Valerie
Beverly Lee
September 13, 2009
I am praying for all of you, knowing that God will provide comfort and strength for each of you in the coming days.
September 13, 2009
Dear Emory and Family,
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this time. Susan accomplished so much during her time here and left a path that so many will benefit.
With love,
Julian Bourne Horst
Luck and Janet Shepherd
September 13, 2009
It was with much sadness that we learned today of Susan's death. It was wonderful to watch such an inspiring young lady grow through the years as she participated in our Church and in our Georgetown community.
Our deepest sympathy to Tom, Sally, Emory, Tim and Tim and Susan's children. You are in our hearts and prayers today and in the coming days.
Kelly Barnes Laham
September 13, 2009
To Susan's Family, I send my deepest sympathies. Susan and I met our freshman year at Salem College. We just reconnected a little over a year ago through email. I could hear her enthusiasm through every word when she talked about her family and Peace Haven. I know what an amazing person she was and how much she will be missed. I am so thankful that I had this last year to chat with her through email. May God's peace be with all of you.
beth cleary
September 13, 2009
I will never forget Susan's beautiful smile, it was permanent without a flaw.
Beth Sachs Cleary
Winyah High Class of 82
Cindy Tarrant
September 13, 2009
I was so saddened to hear of Susan's passing. We graduated from Salem together, and I will always remember her kind, loving spirit. I was especially touched when I first read about her desire to create Peacehaven Farm - how beautiful to know that her son as well as others will have such a wonderful place to live as adults. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
Janis Fitzgerald
September 13, 2009
I have been a cyber friend of Susans since we were both initially diagnosed. We met on BC.org. She was one of my buds. I loved her. Throwing dog food Susan...for you! You are my sunshinesmiles sista
September 13, 2009
To the family of Susan Gillespie Elliott,
I was so saddened to hear that Susan lost her battle to cancer and that she died at such a young age. We were good friends during our days at Winyah High School, but sadly, I lost contact with her over the years. She was always fun, smart and I loved being a guest in her home in Georgetown for many sleepovers.
Susan's obituary was one of the most amazing tributes that I have ever read. She lived a remarkable and generous life and was obviously loved by many. To her husband and sons, I am so sorry for your loss and the huge void that will be felt in your home and in your family. To Mr & Mrs. Gillespie and Emory, I am so sorry that your daughter and sister is gone. I will keep each of you in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Melanie Stevens Hellmer
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
September 13, 2009
Our hearts go out to you in your great loss.
Love, Joanne and Ted Quantz
September 13, 2009
Susan and I graduated from Salem College together - and I ran into her in a shoe store in Greensboro a year or so ago - which was a fun surprise and a chance meeting because I live several hours away. I enjoyed catching up with her briefly and learning about her amazing Peacehaven Farm project. Obviously, it was the ultimate labor of love for her. I am so sad to hear that she has passed away. I know she must have been an amazing daughter, wife and mother. To her entire family, I send my deepest sympathy.
Alice Stockton Webb
Salem College - Class of '83
Susan Goodman
September 13, 2009
To Tim Elliott and family, we remember beautiful Susan with fondness. Grateful to have had her touch in our lives, we are most blessed. From painting her "New Shoes" to seeing her family grow and prosper has been our gift. To our good friends, Sally and Tom Gillespie, parents of Susan, we wonder how one endures the pain of the death of a chhld. Our wishes are to be with you all on Tuesday, even though we are not able to do so. Our prayers and momemts of memory are with you on Tuesday and thereafter.
Susan and John Goodman
Jean Gause Weeks
September 13, 2009
I was deeply saddened to hear about Susan's illness and passing. I knew her through Georgetown Presbybterian Church and will always remember her energetic personality and friendliness. My thoughts and prayers are with her famility and I hope the beautiful memories of Susan bring comfort.
Rebecca Snyder-Leggett
September 12, 2009
I did not realize that Susan had passed away when today I shared a thought with friends of hers, many of them our classmates from high school.This really speaks to me about what an incredible person she was. "The Good News in this life and after is that God's light and love shines in us after all else fades." Susan knew this from the time I knew her and I am sure before that. Her smile,love , and dedication were such an integral part of her spirit. In her life she endured and pesisted to live a godly life. I know that you are so proud of her and you will miss her. She did so much in her lifetime.God has reserved a special place for her,because she lived her life for him. My prayers are with you and your family. Patricia Snyder
Rebecca Snyder Leggett
Robin Freeman Kirtley
September 12, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of Susan's passing. I haven't seen her since our days at Winyah, but I remember her having a bright smile and such a pleasanat personality. I pray that you will be comforted in the days ahead. Sincerely, Robin Freeman Kirtley
Christine David
September 12, 2009
We are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I remember meeting Susan at Emory and Bob's wedding way back in 1983. She was ever so gracious to our family, showing us around Georgetown and making us feel at home. Through the years, I feel like I've spent time with her as I've listened to the countless amazing stories of her life. From helping out those in her family to helping those halfway around the world, her generous spirit was an inspiration to me. She walked the talk. My heart goes out to all of you. Sending aloha across the sea, and praying that you find comfort amongst family and friends. "Life is not measured in the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away."
Love, Chris, Rich and Annalise
Ellen Parsons Thames
September 12, 2009
Tim, Austin, Wesley and Julian, Tom, Sally, Emory & family-
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. And I am so sorry for your huge loss. I've never read such a beautiful tribute.
Susan was a dear friend to me and I will miss her too. We shared lots of special times over the years. She was so much fun - we definitely shared lots of giggles (and belly laughs). As we've grown up, I have been so inspired by her strength, generosity, and positive outlook.
I know Susan was loved by many many people. We have lost a wonderful person.
Hugs to you all-
Ellen
September 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
September 12, 2009
Sally, Tom and all family members, please accept my deepest sympathy at this time of your dear Susan's departure into a place where she is pain free and at peace. I will hold each of close to my heart especially for the next few days. Her life will be remembered by all she touched.
Much love, Mary Boyd Brown
Pawleys Island
Sheila Beane
September 12, 2009
I never met Susan but I have prayed for her every day for the past 3 years. I work at First Presbyterian with her friend Elizabeth and saw the love & joy that Susan brought to Elizabeth's life. I told Elizabeth that I would pray for Susan during my morning quiet time 3 years ago and as Elizabeth would share updates & funny stories with me about Susan & her family I began to feel like she was my friend as well. What an awesome lady!!!!
September 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I feel that I knew Susan through our many conversations about the farm and a rescue LGD. She was an amazing person.
Martha Great Pyrenees Rescue
Jane Bovender
September 12, 2009
Wesley,
You have an awesome family! Hang on to all those special things that your mom left in you and your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
with love,
Ms.Bovender
September 12, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
all. We will alway remember what Susan
and Tim did for our church. It was a
pleasure to meet Emory's family.
With Love,
Curt and Fran Bray
September 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Ivy Dey-Johnson
September 12, 2009
To the Elliott Family
We are very sorry for the loss of your Mother and Wife. Your Family is in our prayers.
Joe Johnson
September 12, 2009
Wesley
I am sorry about the loss of your Mom. I miss you.
Joe Johnson your Friend
Cardin Bradley
September 12, 2009
To Susan's family we send our love and share in your profound sadness for the loss of a dear daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and friend. What an amazing person - we are blessed to have known Susan. You are in our thoughts and constant prayers.
John & Debbie Keller
September 12, 2009
We grieve along with all of your family, at the loss of such a precious daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend of so many. We felt that we knew Susan through the many conversations and emails received from my brother Bob and sister-in-law Emory. Susan was an inspiration to us, in all the ways she gardened throughout her life. A true "master gardener" at heart. Seeds have been planted all over the world because of hers and Tim's generosity and conviction, that all human beings matter, and should be granted to live on this earth with dignity and their needs met. What a legacy she has left behind. We especially treasure the time we had with her father, Tom, while in Colorado this summer. It's no wonder Susan became who she did. Someone indeed, who carried on what her parents instilled within her. Know Who you follow. Then follow Him. And that's exactly what Susan Gillespie Elliot did.
God bless and embrace you all.
Libby Grimes
September 12, 2009
Dear Tim, Austin, Wesley, Julian, and all members of Susan's family: We will truly miss Susan. She was a great friend and role model to all of us. She was so courageous in her battle with Cancer, never wanting anyone's pity, and living her days to the fullest. She was a tender mother and wife, we know. She will live on in our fond memories of her and with her legacy with Peace Haven and her other volunteer works. You will be in our thoughts and prayers! With much love, Libby, Charles, Caitlyn and Bryan Grimes
Dorie Sturgill
September 12, 2009
Tim, Wesley, Julian and Justin,
You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
All my bets,
Dorie Sturgill
September 12, 2009
We send Susan's family, especially our dear friends Sally and Tom, our love. Susan was like a light that fills the world, and she will be sorely missed by those who knew her well and those, like us, who were just starting to know her. Bless you all.
Jessica and joseph Cave
Mary Bryan Smith
September 12, 2009
Tim,
My heart goes out to you and your boys.
I will fondly remember Susan with a smile on her face. I particularly remember the smile when she began dating you!
With love,
Mary Bryan Pierce Smith
September 12, 2009
We will miss Susan -and love you all dearly. Margaret Anne & Glennie
September 12, 2009
To The Beautiful Elliot Family: Please know that I grieve with all of you over the passing of Susan's Physical Nature. I also celebrate with you the Treasure that is Susan! Each time I was honored to be in her presence,I was awed by her gifts of Wisdom, Wit, Dedication to God's Family and especially her Love and Service of her Immediate Family! She taught us all about Agape Love by her kind words and especially her loving actions. She was truly a Living Saint as she walked this earth. She always reminded me of Bob, my late husband. I am sure they are in God's Heaven reminiscing about their families and sharing a few laughs about all of us as well! May we all one day come to experience the Gentle Peace of Christ that now comforts your Dear Susan! As always, I treasure each one of you and will remember you all in constant prayer! Much Love, Betty Tarantelli
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