Susan Jane Mortimore

Susan Jane Mortimore (née Goodhue) "Susie"of White Lake, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital in Commerce Township. She was 81 years old and had been in declining health for a few months.
Born on July 14, 1943, in Detroit, Susie was the beloved daughter of the late Douglas and Helen (Reno) Stabler. She was recently preceded in death by her devoted husband of 34 years, James Mortimore, who passed on October 6, 2024.
A lifelong learner, Susie attended Oakland Community College and proudly earned her bachelor's degree in education from Eastern Michigan University in 1990. Professionally, she wore many hats with passion and flair. She was a well-known hairdresser in the area and later thrived as a longtime salesperson. In her later years, she and Jim enjoyed working together in the pro shop at Brentwood Golf Course, where they lived and shared their mutual love of golf.
To her grandchildren, Susie was the "fun and cool Granny"-the kind who spoiled them, allowing mischievous adventures (with a wink and a "don't tell your parents") but was never a pushover. She was strong, no-nonsense, and always led with her heart. Her daughters, Pam and Laura, credit their independence and strength to the sacrifices she made and the values she instilled.
Susie had a true passion for teaching-whether it was golf, sewing, or life itself. She taught her grandkids how to golf through "Granny Camp," with lessons in the morning and sewing tutorials in the afternoon. A gifted seamstress, she lovingly crafted her daughters' wedding dresses, as well as christening gowns, first communion, flower girl, and homecoming dresses. Many childhood outfits and cherished quilts-created for weddings, graduations, and new babies-were the work of her talented hands.
A consummate golf coach, Susie wasn't shy about correcting a golf swing, and she had a gift for teaching that made her lessons simple yet impactful. She played in the Lady Shickers golf league for many years (several of which included her daughter Pam) and was also a skilled bowler. In her youth, she was quite the athlete, often preferring the company of boys for their shared love of sports and drama-free friendship. She was also deeply proud of her family and sparked her daughter Laura's interest in photography.
Family gatherings were where Susie truly shined. Her legendary Christmas Eves were warm, welcoming affairs, where everyone-friends, neighbors, or anyone without a place to go-was invited. In her later years, guests never left without a handmade gift. Thanksgiving was another grand occasion; Susie ensured that everyone was seated at one table.
She was a dedicated member of quilting groups and often donated charity quilts from her heart and hands. Her love for music ran deep-especially Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand-and she and her daughters shared an annual Neil Diamond concert tradition.
Susie and Jim loved their road trips to their golf course condo in Myrtle Beach, SC. She made friends easily and kept many close. Her warmth, wit, and generosity touched all who knew her.
Susie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, quilting circles, golf buddies, and all who had the joy of knowing her.
Susie is survived by her two devoted daughters, Pam (Jim) McGowan and Laura (Steve) Veldhof; cherished grandchildren, Maggie (fiancé Mason Martin) McGowan, Ashley (Peter) Weyers, Marin McGowan, Lindsey Veldhof, Abigail Veldhof, and Mark Veldhof; a sister, Pat Lauer; brother, Mike (Geraldine) Stabler; two step-children, Tammy Schloff and Jimmy Mortimore; step-grandchildren, Tara (fiancé Nick DeAngelis) Contor and Ava Mortimore; and a host of friends. In addition to her husband, Susie was preceded in death by brothers, Jerry (Verna) Stabler and Ken Stabler.
Family and friends may gather at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington for visitation on Thursday afternoon, May 29, from 1-4 pm. The afternoon will be concluded by a funeral service at 4:00 pm. Susie's son-in-law, Jim McGowan, will lead the ceremony. In her honor, the family encourages attendees to wear bright colors in celebration of her life.
Those who wish to further honor Susie's memory are invited to consider a contribution to the American Heart Association.