Suzanne Coleman

COLEMAN, Suzanne Suzanne Coleman, Chief Speechwriter for Governor Ann W. Richards, Dies at 70 Suzanne Coleman helped give voice to a more inclusive era of Texas politics and enduring democratic values. A prodigious student of history and politics, Suzanne was a gifted story teller. Her writing captured the truths of our human experience through the smallest details of our daily lives. "Suzanne was not only a wordsmith of the highest order, but a thoughtful and wise teacher to us all," recalls Mary Beth Rogers, Governor Richards' Chief of Staff. "Always in the background, Suzanne's insight, intelligence and wry sense of humor showed through in everything she did -- whether putting together an in-depth policy paper or crafting a keynote address to the nation. Most importantly, Suzanne possessed a character trait that we rarely see in politics today: kindness." Suzanne also wrote for other notable Texas leaders, including two University of Texas Chancellors: Mark G. Yudof and Dr. Kenneth Shine. She was born in Fort Worth, Texas, to William Clovis Coleman and Amelia Lary Coleman, both from large families with deep Texas roots. Suzanne graduated from Paschal High School and Texas Christian University, where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and earned a BA in Political Science and History. She completed her Masters in Political Science from the University of Texas at Arlington. In 1972, Suzanne left her PhD program at Rice University to volunteer in the gubernatorial primary campaign of Frances Tarleton 'Sissy' Farenthold. Suzanne met her partner, Mary Jane Leahy, in 1989. They loved traveling to New Mexico, talking politics, and fine dining. In addition to Mary Jane, Suzanne is survived by her cousin, Amelia Ann Kerby Haltom, as well as Mrs. Haltom's son Kerby. Other family members include her cousins Mary Land, Melinda Lary-Smith, and Lee Ann O'Loughlin. Among her legion of friends, Suzanne has had none better than Mimi Purnell. Mimi's affection and support through the worst and best of times has been essential to Suzanne's life. Suzanne Coleman carefully considered every word she said or wrote. And although her words were often spoken by others, they originated in her heart and mind and will live on forever. The Considered Words Fund has been established to honor Suzanne Coleman at the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders. The fund will be used to enhance the teaching of research, writing, and public speaking. To donate, please visit: https://www.annrichardsschool.org/donate/.