Susan E. Gildea

Susan E. Gildea (nee Murphy)

Susan “Sue” Gildea, beloved wife of the late Edward “Ted” J. Gildea, passed away surrounded by family. Sue was a devoted mother to Kathy Mazies, Judy (Rich) Flicker, and Kevin (Julie) Gildea, and a cherished grandmother to Timmy, Chelsea, Katie, Annie, Emily, and Elizabeth. She was a dear sister to the late David, Bill, and Tom, a fond sister-in-law to Mary Faye Casey, and a kind aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Sue grew up in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, attending St. Barnabas Grade School before moving to St. Cajetan Parish. She graduated from the Academy of Our Lady High School in 1962 (Longwood Academy). Shortly after, she married her high school sweetheart, Teddy, and together they welcomed three children.

Throughout her life, Sue worked many different jobs, always striving to better herself and her family. She returned to school to study Occupational Therapy, which became her lifelong career. Sue dedicated many years to helping others in several nursing homes and hospitals.

In 1963, Sue and Ted moved to Midlothian, where they became active parishioners at St. Christopher’s. After losing Ted to cancer in 1996, Sue moved to Tinley Park in November 2001 and found a new spiritual home at St. Stephen’s Parish, where she became an active participant in parish life.

In 2022, Sue decided to downsize and moved into Palos Senior Living, where she spent her last three years. There, she built a wonderful network of friends, including Emily, Linda, Pat, Joann and many table friends. Sue started a rosary group and enjoyed participating in activities such as crafts and book club. She was an avid reader and loved playing cards and Mexican Train with her friends and grandchildren. Sue also enjoyed making ceramics and crocheting, sharing her creations with loved ones.

Sue had a passion for travel. She and Ted owned several campers and enjoyed trips to Mexico and Arizona together. After Ted’s passing, Sue became even more adventurous, traveling to Greece, Medjugorje, and Ireland. Her strong faith was a guiding force throughout her life; she participated in St. Stephen’s retreat program and completed the Called and Gifted lay minister program at Mundelein Seminary alongside her daughter Kathy.

After thirty years apart, Sue is now reunited with the love of her life, Teddy, in their eternal resting place. Her kindness, faith, adventurous spirit, and Facebook posts will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NAWS Animal Humane Society, located in Mokena Crossings at 9981 190th St, Mokena, IL 60448, or to the American Diabetes Association, 55E Monroe St. Ste 3420 Chicago, IL 60603.