Susan Marie Smith

Susan Marie Smith, 61, of Kansas City, Missouri surrounded by friends and family passed after a brave battle with breast cancer on the morning of September 24th. Her visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 2nd from 6:00-8:00 pm with Rosary at 6:30 pm at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11822 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, MO 64131. Mass of Christian Burial will also take place at the church on Thursday, October 3rd at 10:00 am. The Graveside service will follow Mass at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 7601 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64138.

Susie graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Independence. She later continued her studies in Early Childhood Development. She used her knowledge to start a long and successful career in education and childcare where countless families trusted Susie with their children. Life-long bonds with families, co-workers, and employers were forged in that trusting relationship. As a director, Susie mentored her teaching staff and led them in fostering a safe and fun learning environment. Her steadfast commitment to nurturing and developing young children aligned with her dedication to raise her own strong and happy family.

She could be found enjoying her many beloved activities such as camping at Smithville Lake, perfecting one of her many recipes, planning the next family get together, or baking and decorating beautiful cookies, pies and cakes. Susie loved cruising the open ocean, visiting many ports of call and participating in many on ship activities. Her famous notebook documented all the travel plans for taking cross-country family road trips.

Her most cherished role was Grandmother to her grandchildren. In spite of her earthly passing, her love for them endures forever.

Susie is survived by Brian, her devoted husband of thirty seven years; daughter, Megan (Hans); sons, Shawn (Carolyn) and Ryan (Bethany); grandchildren, Nora and Matthew. She is also survived by her father, Charles Van Horn; mother, Karol Van Horn; brothers, Michael (Sonya) and Patrick Van Horn and sister, Theresa Todden (Dan).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) link to donate below. Donate to End Breast Cancer at https://give.bcrf.org/give/302920/?_ga=2.241882240.369169684.1716309918-1060516778.1714585217&_gac=1.237153646.1714585777._removed_#!/donation/checkout