Susan Kate Perry

March 20, 1946- October 25, 2022

Susan Kate Perry (“Suddy”) was the oldest of the 3 Perry Girls born to John “Jack” and Nadine Perry. Susan grew up surrounded by a large, loving extended family. Beginning at a young age, she worked in the family grocery store in Southeast Portland.

Susan graduated from David Douglas High School in 1964 and the University of Oregon – Phi Beta Kappa – in 1968. After graduating, she traveled across the United States and Europe. In her 20’s she moved to Washington, D.C. for 3 years. There she attended graduate school at American University. An internship working with hospitalized children set her on a career course. The years in Washington, D.C. were among the most significant of her life. She “grew up”  – thriving in an environment rich in foreign travel, cultural diversity, 70s politics, and lasting friendships.

Susan returned to Portland, and earned a Master’s degree from Lewis & Clark College. For the next 5 years, she was a counselor at Wynne Watts School on the Albertina Kerr campus in Northeast Portland. Susan’s travels took her to Greece several times; the longest trip was 2 months on her own wandering the Greek mainland and islands. Crete was the place in the world that rivaled Susan’s love of home. She shared her passion for the country with her adventurous, beloved nieces and nephew.

In 2003, Susan retired from Mt. Hood Community College. She was a counselor / instructor at the college for 20 years. In retirement, Susan volunteered in schools and animal shelters, took lessons in Taiko drumming and Ballroom dancing – and more.

Susan was preceded in death by Felicia McCarthy and Colleen Perry Morgan.

She is survived by her sister, Karen (Butch); brother-in-law, Greg (Paula); nephew Justin; nieces Carrie (Rafa), Mandy (Janice), and Megan (Jake); and great-niece Willow. Donations in Susan’s memory may be made to any animal shelter or to Unity Spiritual Center of Portland.

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held Saturday at 2pm on December 10th at Unity – 4525 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215