Susan Elizabeth Sulzbacher

Susan Elizabeth Sulzbacher, age 82, passed away on August 28th at Westminster Woods after a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

She was the devoted daughter of Hazel and I.M. Sulzbacher and the loving older sister of William May Sulzbacher, who preceded her in death. Susan was a beloved mother to her three children: Frederick (Kathy), Judy (Darin), and Carolyn (James), and a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Frederick III (Gianna), Kelly, Robert, Jeffrey, Natalie, Brett, and Timothy.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Anne Sulzbacher; her nephew, Paul Sulzbacher; and her nieces, Julie Russ (Jonathan), and Ellen Sulzbacher.

Susan’s life was marked by her deep devotion to family and her commitment to serving her community. She spent her childhood summers with her grandparents in Rome, Georgia, and carried on that tradition with her own children, fostering lasting connections between generations. Later, when her parents faced health challenges, Susan moved back to Jacksonville to help care for them. She cherished family gatherings and delighted in creating joyful memories with her children and grandchildren hosting trips to the beach, the mountains, and at lakeside retreats; memories filled with laughter, adventures, and endless popsicles. In her eyes, her grandchildren could do no wrong, and they remained the light of her life.

Returning to Jacksonville also allowed Susan to continue her family’s legacy of service. For more than 19 years, she worked at the Sulzbacher Center in roles including volunteer coordinator, supportive living coach, and correctional liaison, dedicating herself to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. After retiring, she continued her service as a member of the Center’s Board of Directors. She also served for many years on the Board of Directors for Gateway Community Services. Susan was an active member in the North Jacksonville Rotary Club and served as Director for the North Jacksonville Rotary Family for many years. She was a four-time Paul Harris Fellow.

Outside of her community work, Susan found joy in gardening, walking with friends, visiting the dog park, and baking (her carrot cake was legendary!).

Susan’s beautiful smile and warm welcome touched everyone she met. She lived with a strong work ethic, a generous spirit, and a heart dedicated to helping others. She was deeply proud of her family, past and present. While she is now at peace in heaven, her love and presence will be profoundly missed.

A memorial service honoring Susan will be held at the Sulzbacher Center on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 10:30a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Sulzbacher Center in Susan’s memory.