Susan M. Turley

Passed away Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Susan was born October 14, 1959 in Utica, NY the daughter of Russell and Gail (Jones) Farrow. She was a graduate of Lakeshore High School where she participated in cheerleading, basketball, and track.

On August 4, 1979 Susan was united in marriage to her husband, David L. Turley, who survives. Also surviving are her children, Andrew (Lauren) Turley, Bradenton, FL; Michelle (Brian) Papke, Ada, MI; grandchildren, Jack and Oliver Koning, Drew and Colton Turley; brothers and sister, Richard (Susan) Farrow, Parker, CO; Timothy (Kathy) Farrow, Kalamazoo, MI; Dawn (Mark) Amidon, Bremerton, WA; and several nieces and nephews. 

Susan was often described as a thoughtful, loving, and vibrant soul.  She was energetic and effervescent.  Her warm smile and uninhibited laughter were the most magnetic facets of her personality.  Known for being generous toward others, she was a ‘giver of gifts’ who genuinely delighted in creating the kind of joy that she could also share in.  

She was a homemaker whose hobbies included knitting, daily walks, baking her famous chocolate chip cookies, and spending quality time with loved ones.  She found a deep sense of gratification volunteering at Loaves and Fishes in Kalamazoo where she was able to impact people with her warmth and presence.  

A devoted mother, her greatest joy was in nurturing her children’s unfolding.  She was full of maternal pride with each milestone and accomplishment.  Tenacious and athletic, she would throw baseballs to her son in the driveway over and over, coaching and encouraging the entire time.  A true champion of their happiness.  She will be remembered by her children as the first and greatest love of their lives.

Susan was beloved by her four grandchildren.  As “Nanny” she became as dynamic as Mary Poppins, full of imagination and creativity.  With a knack for surpassing the children in both excitement and stamina.  Her childlike nature made her the queen of playtime, bedtime stories, and the leader of wild-rumpuses.  

Susan was a paradox to behold, a wild and passionate heart, strong with fierce determination yet gentle and sweet.  She was an absolute supernova of a woman whose light will continue to burn bright long after her death.  She was true and good, but beyond that, now she is free.  

A memorial gathering for family and friends will be held from 1:00pm-3:00pm on Friday, March 15 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 3926 South 9^th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Private family interment will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes. To view Susan’s personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com