Susan Conklin

Susan H. Conklin, a beloved mother, a symbol of strength, and an indomitable spirit, passed away on Sunday, October 22nd, around 6 AM. Her life was a testament to unwavering determination, boundless love, and an enduring commitment to her family and community.

Born in Englewood, New Jersey, Susan was the cherished daughter of Alma Bartels and Donald G. Havlish, Sr. Alongside her two brothers, she grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She leaves behind a loving husband, David Green, a cherished daughter, Laurie Conklin, a devoted son, Nathan Conklin, a loving family of siblings, nieces, nephews, grand-daughters, and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Susan exuded strength, work ethic, and provided for her family as she developed a successful professional career. She embarked on her professional journey in the mortgage industry, working for Home Federal. Her dedication and expertise propelled her to the position of Vice President, where she was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing home mortgages for much of the Atlanta area. Home Federal's legacy continued when it transformed into Home Bank, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

Like her father she had a passion for sales. She joined Oakmont Mortgage, contributing extensive knowledge and experience to the field. Her career culminated with her role at Fannie Mae, where her expertise influenced the strategy, sales, and execution of mortgage underwriting for a significant region for Fannie Mae customers.

Susan was a single mother. Her love was unconditional, powerful, and truly extraordinary. She was not only a mother but also a best friend and the love of her children's lives. Susan's strength and resilience were evident throughout her life's journey, and she served as an inspiring role model for all.

In her journey as a single mother, Susan found a soulmate and a best friend in her daughter, Laurie Conklin. Their close relationship was a testament to the love they shared and their enduring friendship. Laurie's life journey closely intertwined with her mother's, as they lived together in Roswell after Laurie finished school. Their unwavering care for each other strengthened their bond, making them inseparable companions in life.

Susan was a loving Nana to Nathan and Tanya Conklin’s girls, Sydney and Penelope. She enjoyed watching her girls grow up, blossom into young women, and had an immense pride that they show strength in her likeness. She loved them dearly.

Susan's love journey was marked by challenges and trials but ultimately culminated in a wonderful match and lifetime love with David Green. She met her beloved husband, David, on October 30, 2009, and their love story was a testament to the power of love and connection overcoming hurdles. They embarked on the journey of marriage on October 27, 2012, creating a bond that was filled with love and shared adventures.

Sue and David were inseparable travel companions, enjoying countless road trips together and exploring new horizons. They relished the tranquility of David's mountain home in Ellijay, Georgia, where they created lasting memories.

Their shared passion for adventure led them on exciting journeys, including trips to Oregon, the captivating landscapes of Africa, desert rides outside of Dubai, and the pristine waters of Bonaire. They even had the privilege of witnessing a recent solar eclipse in the path of totality, an experience that further enriched their shared love story.

Susan embraced David’s family, loving her new stepchildren Reuben, Heidi, Deb, and Jud Green. They brought her much happiness as her family grew in her later years. Meanwhile, she held a close love for her roots: her brothers.

Susan's younger brother, Bill Havlish, resided in Tucker, Georgia, and helped Sue with raising their children together. Bill later retired to Port St. Joe, Florida, with his wife, Ocia Ratliff. Susan was a loving aunt to Bill's children, her niece Julia Havlish, and her nephew David Havlish.

Susan’s older brother, Donald G. Havlish, Jr., shared his life with his wife Fiona Havlish, their daughter Michaela Havlish, and Fiona’s children Sean and Lea Bitterman. Susan was a cherished aunt to Michaela. Tragically, Donald G. Havlish, Jr. was a victim of the September 11 attacks. It was a painful loss for the family but ultimately an event that pulled the family together.

In addition to being a devoted mother, wife, and loving aunt, Susan was a pillar of her community. She served as both President and Treasurer of the Lakeview Homeowners Association (HOA), where she dedicated her time and leadership to make her neighborhood a better place.

Her commitment extended beyond Lakeview, as she was an active member of the Martin's Landing HOA, contributing to the well-being of the entire community. For two decades, Susan was a dedicated community volunteer, positively impacting the lives of her neighbors in Martin's Landing.

Susan's heart for service extended to the Community Assistance Center (CAC) in Sandy Springs, where she volunteered her time, made close friends, and touched the lives of many in need. Her passion for giving back and her warm, welcoming spirit left an indelible mark on the CAC and her neighborhood.

Susan's life journey was cut short. In September 2020, her health took an unexpected turn when complications arose during an endoscopy. Forced to undergo a hospitalization that stretched for several weeks, she embarked on a courageous battle against cancer, all while being separated from her family and friends due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It was later determined that the root of her complications was esophageal cancer. Susan faced this formidable foe with grace and determination. Over the course of two years, she prepared for and battled esophageal cancer, enduring pre-surgical treatment with chemotherapy, a complex surgery to remove the tumor, and post-surgical immunotherapy and radiation. Her preliminary journey was marked as a triumphant win, with the cancer being identified in remission and her body being cancer-free. However, that was only an intermission. Her resilience was tested once more when the recurrence of her cancer was identified. This time, it had reached stage 4, metastasized, and spread beyond her control. Despite the valiant fight she put up, the relentless cancer ultimately prevailed.

She leaves behind a loving husband, a devoted daughter, a cherished son, a loving family of siblings, nieces, and nephews, and countless friends whose lives she touched.

Her legacy of love, strength, and unwavering determination, combined with her profound dedication to service, will forever inspire those who knew her.

No public memorial will be hosted. Rather, Susan requested that friends and loved ones make a donation to CAC at https://ourcac.org/donate-online/