Susan Willis

Born to Robert E. and Phyllis J. Willis on January 28, 1945, in Columbus. She attended The Ohio State University and received her BFA '67 and MA '70, majoring in graphic design and communication. During graduate school she worked in Columbus as an art director for a textbook publisher and for an advertising agency. From 1972 - 1976 she worked in Denver, CO developing Career Exploration curriculum for elementary and middle school students. From 1976 to 1992 McGuire-Willis was in business. The company became successful developing training programs and materials for many central Ohio corporations. In 1992, Susan formed the AXIS Center for Public Awareness for and about people with disabilities through a grant offered by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council. Susan was a dedicated and fearless advocate for people with disabilities. She trained thousands of Ohioans about awareness, wrote countless publications and planned numerous conferences. An expert on the ADA, she also conducted inspections of numerous facilities to assess their accessibility. After her retirement she continued to offer her expertise and skills to helping others, while serving on many advisory committees. In addition to her professional life Susan was an active member in the following: TWIG #175 of Nationwide Children's Hospital, Maize Manor United Methodist Church, and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Susan was preceded in death by her father. She is survived by her mother, brothers Steven and Scott, sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Peter; nephews, Andy, Aaron, and Robert; niece, Nichole Jo. Also, many cousins, great nieces and nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions can be made to Children's Hospital, Maize Manor United Methodist Church or The Columbus Zoo. Services entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTH FUNERAL HOME