Susan Frew

Susan (Fielding) Frew, 74, of North Adams, passed away on September 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Greenfield, MA on May 8, 1951, the eldest child of the late Norman E. Fielding and Jeanette (Bolton) Fielding. Though Sue has left this world, her light and love continue to shine brightly, warming all who knew her.
Susan attended schools in Pittsfield and graduated from Wahconah Regional High School in 1969. She went on to study at Westfield State College and later earned her Master's Degree in Education from Simmons College. Throughout her life, Sue embraced many roles with joy and dedication; serving as a ski instructor at local resorts, a camp counselor at the Pittsfield Boys and Girls Club, a teacher at Perkins School for the Blind, and holding many roles at Friendly's. Most notably, she found her calling as a beloved Reading Specialist at Greylock Elementary School in North Adams.
Kind and generous with her time and love, Sue volunteered in many ways throughout the community. She was an active member of the First Congregational Church in North Adams, where she built friendships that lasted a lifetime. No matter what hat Sue donned for the day, she did so with a smile as bright as the sun and a kind word for everyone she met.
Susan enjoyed her life to the fullest. She loved skiing in her younger years, dining out with friends, celebrating birthdays and holidays with her family, and simply chatting on the phone; moments that brought her great joy. She will be remembered as one of life's truly kind individuals. From her days in high school, college, Friendly's, Greylock Elementary, her church, and at Big Pond in Otis, she developed lifelong friendships that she cherished dearly and to which she remained devoted to; a true friend with a great warm smile to welcome all.
Among her fondest memories were attending the Annual Cummington Fair, where she once proudly placed 3rd in the truck pull with her son LR, as her family cheered on their "Frew Crew." She adored every year watching White Christmas, her favorite movie; and watching it with her children made it twice as special. A fashionista at heart, Sue delighted in clothing and accessories; boasting nearly two years' worth of unique school day outfits, though her genuine warmth and bright smile always outshone even her best attire.
A proud daughter, protective sister, caring niece, and occasionally mischievous cousin, Sue valued her family heritage deeply. Her passion for literacy touched countless lives, from her creative classroom lessons to dressing up as the Cat in the Hat for Dr. Seuss' birthday at Greylock Elementary. Students and staff alike adored her. Sue's quiet strength and determination were most memorable in her resilience through illness these past few years; facing challenges with grace and never a complaint.
Family was Sue's greatest joy. As "Gigi" to her grandchildren, Maddison and Connor, she found pure delight. Always a teacher at heart, she guided them with patience, care, and encouragement as they grew. She poured her heart into raising her children, Bridget and LR, instilling in them strength, compassion, and unwavering love. She was endlessly proud of her children and never hesitated to share that pride with the world. Always giving of herself, Sue met every need with grace. Her constant love as a mother, grandmother, partner, and friend leaves a legacy that will continue to live on through those who loved her most.
Susan leaves behind her daughter Bridget Balawender (Scott) of North Adams; her son Richard "LR" Frew (Andrea) of Savoy; her longtime cherished companion, Paul Derby; grandchildren Maddison Frew and Connor Frew; her former husband and friend, Patrick Herman; her sister Candace Lottig; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her husband Richard Henry Frew, her sister Debbie Fielding, and her brother Scott Fielding.
FUNERAL NOTICE: A service to celebrate the life of Susan Frew will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the First Congregational Church in North Adams. Donations in her memory may be made to PopCares or HospiceCare of the Berkshires through the Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home - CENTRAL CHAPEL 74 Marshall St. North Adams, MA 01247. To add to the book of memories please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Susan, please visit our Tree Store.