Susan Carmella Sickmen

On the afternoon of March 18, 2026, Susan Carmella Sickmen entered eternal rest surrounded by her family. Susan was 76 years old.

Susan was born in Winchester, Virginia to Michael J. and Ann M. Grow. A true child of the 60's, Susan loved folk music and the folk lifestyle. While attending Kansas University, Susan and her friends lived in a small farmhouse on the Kansas prairie outside Lawrence, Kansas. She finally settled in Virginia, where she resided for the remainder of her life, creating meaningful connections with others, wherever she went.

Professionally, Susan was a force of nature. She excelled in her career with Stuart Dean, where her dedication and expertise were matched only by her ability to connect with people. Far more than just coworkers, Susan created lifelong bonds with her colleagues, many of whom became dear friends over the years. She was widely respected for both her professional achievements and her genuine character.

In her later years, Susan developed a deep faith in God, reading her bible daily. She placed her life in God's hands and truly lived by the phrase "not my will but Thy will be done". She particularly enjoyed singing in her church choir. In her final years, as her memory declined, Susan accepted her condition with grace and equanimity.

Susan is preceded in death by her father, Michael, and her mother, Ann. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Sickmen (husband Stephen Hardy), granddaughters Daisy-Sol and Ivy-Sol Hardy and brothers, Michael Grow (Bonnie) and Gordon Grow (Terri).

Susan's family thanks the staff of Aarondale for the care extended to Susan during her final year.

The family invites those who would like to celebrate Susan's life to a memorial service on 3/26 at 11:00 am at Fairfax Memorial Park at 9900 Braddock Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032.

*There is no service at the funeral home, only an outdoor service at the memorial park. Reception to follow at Oh George Tables and Taphouse in Fairfax.