Susan Weir

Susan "Suki" Smith Weir

January 22, 1945 - December 7, 2024

Susan "Suki" Smith Weir loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, lover of arts and culture, intellectual, and trailblazer for equity, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family at her Sonoma County home December 7, 2024. She was 79.

Suki reunites with beloved husband of 46 years, William "Bill" Weir, her sister Elizabeth Friel, and her grandson Toby Weir. She is survived by her sister Sarah Smith Carey, her cherished children: Derek Weir (Sandra), Brandon Weir (Amy), Donovan Weir (Amelia), and Robyn Poggi (Michael), and her adoring grandchildren: Rogan, Aylee, Paige, Tarn, Eloise, Will, Ryder, Silas, and Beck.

Born on January 22, 1945, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, she was the firstborn of Ann Armstrong Smith and Ronald Fairhall Smith. Universally known as the "Smith Sisters", Suki, Sally, and Lizzie were incredibly close their entire lives. Their childhood took the family from Louisiana to New Jersey, to Miami, following their father's distinguished career. The family also cherished summers on Cape Cod.

After graduating from University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1967 and with a love for travel, she set off as a PanAm International flight attendant. She relocated to San Francisco and was immersed in the city's vibrant 1970s's art and culture scene when she met the love of her life Bill, while working at Bank of America. She lovingly embraced the role of stepmother to Bill's three sons and later the couple welcomed their daughter Robyn, in 1979.

Professionally, Suki achieved great success in a 34-year human resources career at McKesson Corporation. She retired in 2011 as Senior Vice President. A trailblazer in executive development and affirmative action, she passionately championed equal opportunities for women and minorities throughout her career. A dedicated mentor to many, she leaves behind a legacy of leadership, equity, empowerment, and lasting positive change.

A dedicated philanthropist, community member, and champion for women, she served as a board member of San Francisco Planned Parenthood, an active supporter of the Raphael House and Big Brother Big Sister of America, and a patron of her many favorite museums and ballets of San Francisco.

Mirroring the talent and inclusiveness she brought to her career, she was the ultimate hostess, an incredible cook, and tasteful entertainer who always had a seat at her table for all. The most fortunate guest would be the one seated next to her benefiting from her wisdom, charm, and intellectual curiosity.

Suki's many joys included gardening in her Presidio Heights home, and she later extended her horticultural talent to the transformation of a 166-acre Mendocino sheep farm into an award-winning Pinot Noir vineyard, a project she embarked on with her husband Bill in 1987. There she cultivated olive trees and fruit orchards. Always driven by a love of family and giving back, Suki and Bill created a non-profit wine raising money for cancer research after the loss of Suki's sister Lizzie to cancer in 2004.

The greatest of all Suki's life joys was spending time with her grandchildren. To them, and her many beloved friends, she passes on a love of culture, cooking, traveling, gardening, and hosting the perfect party. Her huge heart, depth of intellect, and unwavering belief in the potential of others will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Raphael House, San Francisco Planned Parenthood, or any of her beloved San Francsico cultural institutions.