Susan Cecil Gotwald

Susan was born in Nashville, TN, on August 7th, 1948. She attended elementary school in Jackson, TN and moved with her family to Nashville in 1962. She graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1966 and then attended the University of Alabama, before returning to Nashville for good in 1968.

Susan enjoyed a sprawling, 40-year career in administration with Vanderbilt University, where she served in various roles, including executive assistant to chancellor Joe Wyatt from 1982-2000. She was also a renowned cook and well-known Nashville caterer. Her famous “Parmesan Chicken” was a favorite among all those fortunate enough to enjoy it.

Susan will be remembered best as a dedicated mother to her only son, Rick; a doting “Granny” to Margaret and Claire; and as a loving and caring friend to all those she knew. She was happiest when hosting friends and family, tending to her patio flowers, and sipping a dry, ice-cold martini while discussing the latest gossip.

She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Gertrude Cecil, and survived by her son, Richard (Casey) Gotwald of Nashville; grandchildren, Margaret and Claire; sister, Sarah Eck; and nephews, Steven (Erin) Eck, Jason (Laurie) Eck, and Andrew (Heather) Eck.

A celebration of life Open House will be held at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home (660 Thompson Lane, Nashville, TN) on Thursday, December 30th, from 2-4pm with a service to follow. The burial will be held in a private family gathering at a later date.