Susan A. Simmons

Susan Annette Simmons left us for a much better place on Jan 5, 2026.

Susan born Jan 21,1958 to Dale and Katie Simmons. She was lifelong resident of Varna/Ithaca having graduated from Ithaca High School and Bryant & Straton Business College with a para-legal degree. She did have a couple of brief adventures along the way.

Susan was her father’s daughter through and through. There was nothing she couldn’t do.

She loved to be on the water. Sailing on Cayuga Lake with dear friends, John, Cheryl and Pam, she was bitten by the sailing bug. In 1992 she packed her Honda and off to the Virgin Islands she went. While in St. Thomas she obtained her captains license and took the helm for many sailing adventures in and around the US & British Virgin Island. She came home to Ithaca in 1993, during one of our wonderful winter seasons.

Susan was blessed to spend the last 2+ decades working for Anchor Capital Management. Anne Chernish, her husband Bill and daughter Sydney become part of the family. Susan always felt very blessed to have found Anne. Anne not only provided her dream job but an invaluable friendship.

Susan loved her family. Known as “Nan” to the kids, she was a 2nd mother to Aaron, spending many hours adventuring. Whether working on the Newfield Covered Bridge garden or a chicken BBQ at the church, Nan was always there.

Susan devoted her life to her family and community. From pancake breakfasts to Thanksgiving Dinners (chaired by her partner in crime, Dawn Potter) for most center events, Susan was there.

Then there’s the Varna United Methodist Church family, where she was a member, a trustee, Chairman of the Board, Treasurer, chief cook and bottle washer. She did it all and kept the little church with a big heart afloat.

Susan is survived by her sister Kim, nephews Brad “Elora”, Aaron, his wife Janelle, their son Mason, our extended family and beloved cousins/seesters. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Varna Community Association 943 Dryden Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.

There will be a gathering to celebrate Susan on Sat. Jan 31, 2026, 11 am – 3 pm at The Varna Community Center.

SHLAHA Susan - ‘til we’re all together again. We love you most!!!