There are people whose lives remind us “what is possible.”
Susan Newton was one of those people.
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Susan Newton’s passing. Many of us knew Susan as a leader, a trusted colleague, a dear friend, and someone who believed deeply that together we could make the world a better place.
As many of you know, Susan was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of cancer last November. While we knew this day would eventually come, her passing is still deeply sad.
For five years, Susan helped shape Lutheran Services in America in ways that will continue to be felt for years to come. She had an extraordinary ability to see the path forward, an unwavering belief in the power of our network, and a remarkable gift for inviting others into the work. Ideas that seemed ambitious became achievable because Susan inspired all of us to see what was possible.
Her leadership touched nearly every major initiative we have undertaken. She launched our Strengthening Families Initiative and established the foundation for Health Through Housing. She was incredibly proud of what we accomplished together—not because of the programs themselves, but because she knew they would create greater opportunity for people and communities.
As John Moeller, CEO of Inspiritus, so perfectly said,
“Susan was the CO (chief optimist). She was Jack of Jack and the Beanstalk. She was David of David and Goliath. With her bright eyes, large smile and contagious laugh, she shrugged off skepticism and made us all believers. Thanks to Susan, and in her honor, we will continue to drive fearlessly closer toward that grand vision.”
Those who worked with Susan experienced not only her optimism, but also her generosity, and determination to make a difference. As Nancy Ackerman, President and CEO of California Lutheran Homes, shared,
Susan’s “intelligence, warmth, humor, and commitment to meaningful outcomes inspired us all and leaves a lasting impact.”
But Susan was so much more than her work.
She was a devoted wife to Chris, a loving mother to Mackenzie and Harrison, active in her community, an avid gardener, an exceptional chef, and someone who generously shared her time by serving on numerous nonprofit boards. She embraced life with enthusiasm, curiosity, and joy.
Lutheran Services in America Board Chair David Trost, President and CEO of St. John’s United, reflected that
Susan had a “soft yet firm commitment” to her work. He added, “We remember her laughter. We remember her compassion. We remember her kindness, her generous spirit, and her unwavering hope.”
Susan leaves behind a remarkable legacy—not simply in the work she led, but in the people she inspired and the lives that will be changed because she dared to dream bigger. She reminded us that together we can accomplish more than any one of us could achieve alone.
She will be deeply missed and always be part of the Lutheran Services in America family.
Help us remember Susan: As we celebrate Susan’s life, we invite those who knew her to share a favorite memory, story, or reflection. We will gather and present these remembrances with Chris, Mackenzie, and Harrison as a tribute to the extraordinary impact Susan had on so many lives.
Alesia Frerichs is the President & CEO of Lutheran Services in America.