Susan Mary Cahill

Born in Newark, NJ, Susan was the daughter of Vincent Cahill and Arlene Winters Cahill. Susan was raised in Spring Lake Heights and graduated from Manasquan High School where, thanks to an engaging and devoted French teacher, Sue found a passion for language. She went on to Montclair State College (University), graduating with a B.A. in French and Spanish. A lifelong learner, Sue would later attend Drew University for a master’s degree and doctorate in literature, degrees she earned while raising her daughter, Lisa, and teaching high school English full time.

Sue had a phenomenal 38-year career in public and private secondary schools, namely Whippany Park High School and Kent Place School. Sue inspired students with her knowledge, energy, talent and kindness. Having a big heart, however, does not equate to being a pushover in the classroom. Sue loved to laugh about the endless complaints at the beginning of the year (e.g. Dr. Cahill gives too much homework! She’s too tough on grades!) By the end of the year, she had dozens of hard workers who had earned better grades the Dr. Cahill way: through blood, sweat and Shakespeare. Sue found teaching incredibly rewarding. She continuously received thank you letters and heartfelt Facebook messages from students over the years, underscoring her positive impact. Sue was well loved by students and colleagues alike.

In retirement, Sue enjoyed spending time with her family and her incredibly excitable cockapoo, Lily. Sue felt extremely blessed to have found a wonderful partner of 20 years, Bob Faulkner. Sue was also blessed, and quite shocked (as were many) when she finally became a grandparent. She assumed her role as Oma with a vitality, joy, gratitude and commitment that was second to none! Outside of quality time with the family, Sue volunteered her talent to the Institute for Spiritual Development as well as The Journey Within. She was an accomplished reverend, medium and tech guru.

Sue was an avid reader. She was rarely without a book and was a big fan of Jodi Picoult. She loved to travel, both domestically and internationally, with friends and family including the late Aunt Grace. Additionally, she loved knitting, crocheting, painting with watercolors, watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, and completing New York Times crossword puzzles.

Sue was a devoted mother, sister, grandparent, partner and friend. She exuded joy, light and love, and the world was a better place with her in it.

Sue was predeceased by her brother John Cahill and nephew, Sean Cahill. She is survived by long-time partner, Robert Faulkner; daughter Lisa Bianco (Tim Ball) and granddaughter, Cecilia Ball; sister Joanne Raimann (Fredrick Raimann) and nephews Brian and Dale Raimann.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 1st from 1:00PM - 5:00PM at Goble Funeral Home, 22 Main St., Sparta, NJ 07871. A Celebration of Life will be held at Goble on Monday, May 2nd at 12PM. The family kindly requests that masks be worn indoors.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Sue’s memory can be made to St Jude’s Children Hospital.