Sue Ellen Curtiss

Mystic – Sue Ellen (Jones) Curtiss, 84, passed away peacefully Sept. 11, 2025.

Sue Ellen (Jones) Curtiss grew up in Glen Ridge, N.J. and earned her bachelor's degree in political science from Bates College.

After graduation, Sue married her college sweetheart, John T. Curtiss, and they moved to Philadelphia where Sue supported John as he completed dental school. Sue Ellen later moved back home and began her career at Doubleday Publishing in New York City while her husband was serving abroad in Vietnam. She and her beloved husband shared 60 wonderful years together until his passing.

Sue was a woman of many passions and talents. She was an accomplished cook and baker. A contributing author to the Charted Courses cookbook; she loved cooking family dinners and having her family around the table. She spent many a snowy day at their Vermont house baking with her grandchildren. Sue's grandchildren were also the lucky recipients of her witty handcrafted hats and sweaters as she was also an accomplished knitter and seamstress.

Sue went on many adventures around the world with her husband John. She particularly loved collecting shells and sea glass during her walks along the island beaches. Much of her collection was transformed into Christmas ornaments and gifted to her friends at the holidays.

Sue Ellen volunteered her time to various charities and local organizations. She had many happy years running the toy department at the Child and Family Agency Annual Sales with her friends. Sue was also a very accomplished gardener and took great pride in her work through the Mystic Garden Club. Sue was generous with her planting knowledge and was happy to help family and friends with their landscaping design. She also prepared many deviled eggs for Ram Island Yacht Club's Annual Regatta.

Sue will be deeply missed by her sons, Matthew and his wife CC of Groton, and Andrew and his wife Mary Kay of Simsbury; and her sister Sara (Jones) Oakes of Baltimore, Md. She also leaves behind her three cherished grandchildren, Lily, Evin and Jane.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic. Burial services will be private.