Susan Willis

Susan Babel Willis, age 83, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026. She was born on September 30, 1942, in Detroit, Michigan, to Simon and Kathleen Babel.

Susan and Bernard, her husband of 50+ years, raised their three boys in Dearborn, Michigan. They also lived in Milford, Novi and Farmington Hills, Michigan. A proud graduate of Marygrove College, she dedicated her career to education and taught in the Dearborn Public Schools for many years, touching the lives of her students with patience, compassionate care, and steady encouragement.

Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. Susan was a devoted parishioner of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Royal Oak and, earlier in her life, an active member of Divine Child Parish in Dearborn, where she formed lasting friendships within her faith community. She was also a longtime member of St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows in Milford, where her faith continued to sustain and guide her.

Susan will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and genuine love of others. She treasured her many friendships, especially those formed through her Bridge group, Ski Group, and the many book clubs she faithfully attended over the years. She had a deep love of travel and music and cherished her time singing with Sweet Adelines, where she found both joy and fellowship. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and always looked forward to family reunions and gatherings.

Susan's gentle spirit, unwavering faith, understated sense of humor, and compassion will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Susan was the beloved wife of the late Bernard. Loving mother of Patrick (Julie), Bernard, and Thomas (Jessica). Devoted grandmother of Luke, Cole, Anna, Peter, and Molly. Dear sister of Phil (Dee), Molly (Mike), and Angela (Bill). She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends Friday, February 20, from 4 – 8 p.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Vasu, Rodgers & Connell Chapel), 32515 Woodward (between 13–14 Mile), Royal Oak, 248-549-0500. Sharing of Memories and Scripture Service begin at 6:30pm.

Funeral Mass Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 730 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, MI. Visitation at church begins at 10:30 a.m.

Memorial tributes may be made to the Marygrove Conservancy, 8425 McNichols Rd., Detroit, MI 48221.