Obituary of Susan M. O'Neill

Susan Marciana Lussier O’Neill departed this life on Friday May 5, 2023, in the light of the Flower Moon with her loving husband John O’Neill holding her hand. In addition to her husband of fifty years, Susan is survived by her brother Ronald Lussier his wife Mary Lussier, her sister Sandra Lussier, Terry and Maureen O’Neill, Colin and Lisa O’Neill, Timothy O’Neill and Maia Magadini, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Susan will be especially missed by several close friends Cathie Adams, Jane Dadalt, Dawn Griswold, Lynn Trotman, Cindy Bonura, Nancy Thibodeau and Brenda Sundai Barahoner. She was predeceased by her parents Rosaire (Ray) Lussier, Eva Lussier and her sister Valerie Lussier.

Born in Manchester on July 8, 1950, Susan attended Verplanck and Assumption, graduating from East Catholic High School class of 1968. Diagnosed at a young age with Charcot-Marie-Tooth form of muscular dystrophy, Susan was given a bleak prognosis of a short life saddled by incapacity. Gifted with a strong will and an even stronger faith in God, Susan defied the prognosis to live a full and wonderful life. Susan had a successful work life followed by a full second life in retirement and travelled around the world.

After working part time in high school, Susan transitioned to a full time position with Cigna Insurance Company, where she remained until her retirement. Over the next years, Susan was a loving caretaker of several children turning the small apartment on Knox Street into a wonderful learning environment. Susan and John pursued a deeply spiritual life. A life member of the Theosophical Society, Susan held a variety of offices in this world renown society. Susan and John attended religious retreats across the United States and in England, Hungary, India and Canada. For over twenty years, Susan attended Theosophical Camp at the Pumpkin Hollow Retreat Center in Craryville, New York. From May to October, Susan managed the Book and Gift Shop at the retreat center. Susan was an active communicate of Ecclesia Gnostica and a devotee of the Devine Mercy regularly attending the Shrine of the Devine Mystery in Stockbridge Massachusetts.

Susan was a fervent reader of murder mysteries and a self-described jigsaw puzzle junkie. She enjoyed a variety of board games, often hosting game night with her close friends. Susan possessed a unique ability to deliver strong criticism of objectionable behavior with love and devoid of any judgement. Susan had a joy of living evident in the bright smile and warm hug that greeted all.

Over the last few days, people have consoled John with quite similar descriptions of Susan having a special presence. This special presence was the constant thread of her life and all who knew Susan felt her presence.

Visiting hours are 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturday May 20, 2023, at John F. Tierney Funeral Home, 219 West Center Street in Manchester, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association at mda.org or a church of one’s choosing. For online condolences, please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com