Susan Mullaney Caples

Susan Mullaney Caples, 78, of Fernandina Beach, Fla., died Wednesday, Dec. 10, peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, she graduated from Mount St. Joseph Academy in 1965 and earned a degree in education from West Chester University.

In 1979, she and her husband, David Caples, moved to Fernandina Beach and opened a small inn, The 1735 House, on South Fletcher Avenue. Together, they later built and operated The Elizabeth Pointe Lodge, where Susan became a beloved fixture in the community. Over the course of her life, she pursued many careers, including teaching physical education and working with students with special needs.

Closest to her heart was co-founding the Katie Caples Foundation and the Katie Ride for Life following the loss of her eldest daughter. Through the foundation, Susan and her family helped raise awareness of organ donation nationwide, while raising funds that saved lives. The foundation continues to award scholarships to students in need of financial assistance at Bishop Kenny High School in Jacksonville.

After retiring from innkeeping, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by becoming a licensed massage therapist and life coach, continuing her active involvement in the community. In the last five years of her life, she traveled extensively, both independently and with family, finding herself in far-flung places. She explored ancient Egyptian tombs, sailed the archipelagos of French Polynesia, swam the cool waters of the Aegean Sea, and wandered the mossy grounds of her ancestors' lands in western Ireland.

Susan is survived by her daughter, Beth Anne, and grandchildren Landis, Kate and Ella.

A viewing will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at Oxley-Heard Funeral Home with a Vigil Service beginning at 6:30 PM. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at noon Wednesday, Dec. 17, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Fernandina Beach, followed by a reception at Cafe Karibo.

She will be laid to rest alongside her husband, David, and daughter, Katie, at Bosque Bello Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Katie Caples Foundation.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.oxleyheard.com