The Saint John community is in mourning following the unexpected passing of Susan Elaine Rourke, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the local community. Susan’s death in March 2025 has left an undeniable void, one that will be felt by all who knew her. Born on November 13, 1963, in Saint John, Susan was the daughter of Leo Collings and the late Audrey (Clark) Collings. Her life was defined by kindness, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to her family and friends, qualities that endeared her to everyone she met.
Susan’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and dedication. As a devoted wife of 37 years to her husband, Brent, Susan built a life filled with love and care. Together, they raised two sons, Thomas, who is married to Colleen, and Benjamin, who is married to Kaitlin. These two sons were a source of immense pride and joy for Susan, and she dedicated herself to being a guiding presence in their lives. However, it was her grandchildren who were the light of her life. Isla Elaine, Alden, and Alice Mae brought immeasurable joy to Susan, and she cherished every moment spent with them, doting on them with all the love a grandmother can offer.
In addition to her immediate family, Susan is survived by her father, Leo Collings, and her siblings: Kathie Rodger (John), Trudy Melvin (Bob), Louise McCarville (Gary), Maura Butko, James Collings, Peter Collings (Coleen), and Elizabeth Collings. She was also a cherished member of the Rourke family, leaving behind in-laws Allie and Alice Rourke, Danny Rourke (Pauline), Dale Rourke (Cathy), Sherrie Rourke (Steve Lohnes), and Debbie Hatt (Tim), along with numerous nieces and nephews. Susan’s family extended far and wide, and she had a special bond with each and every one of them, always making time to share her love and support.
Susan was predeceased by her mother, Audrey, and her brother-in-law, Fred. While the passing of Susan has left a profound sense of loss, the Rourke and Collings families take comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on through the lives she touched. She was not just a mother and grandmother but also a sister, aunt, and friend, always the first to offer a listening ear or a helping hand when someone was in need.
The news of Susan’s passing has reverberated throughout the community of Saint John, where she was well-known and respected for her compassionate nature. Susan’s classmates from the Simonds High School Class of 1981, in particular, have been profoundly affected by her loss. Friends and alumni remember her as a kind and caring individual, always ready with a smile or a kind word. Her infectious warmth and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. During her time at Simonds High, Susan formed bonds that would last a lifetime, and her classmates recall her as a dependable and supportive friend, always willing to help others in any way she could.
Throughout her life, Susan was not one to seek the spotlight, yet her contributions to the community were immeasurable. Whether it was offering her time to assist a neighbor, helping her children with their school projects, or supporting local causes, Susan’s quiet acts of kindness added up to a lifetime of service to others. She was the epitome of selflessness, always putting others before herself and ensuring that those around her were cared for and supported.
Her death has left the community in a state of shock and sadness. Many have expressed their grief and appreciation for the ways in which Susan’s life enriched their own. Friends have spoken of how Susan’s energy was always positive, and her presence was one that made everyone feel welcome and loved. Her ability to offer comfort and guidance, especially in times of need, made her a pillar of strength for those fortunate enough to know her.
In her passing, Susan leaves behind not only her family and friends but also a legacy of love and compassion that will continue to inspire others. Those who knew her will always remember the warmth she shared, the joy she spread, and the unwavering devotion she showed to those she loved. Her family has expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received from the community during this incredibly difficult time. “We are overwhelmed by the love and kindness that has been shown to us,” said Susan’s family in a statement. “It brings us comfort to know that our beloved Susan made such a positive impact on so many people.”
As the community comes together to mourn her loss, the legacy of Susan Rourke will continue to live on. Her memory will be cherished, and her influence will be felt in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. The love she shared with her family and friends will endure, and the lessons she taught—of kindness, generosity, and dedication—will continue to guide and inspire everyone she touched.
While this is a time of grief and sorrow, it is also a time to celebrate Susan’s life and all that she accomplished. Her unwavering devotion to her family, her contributions to the community, and her deep love for those around her will never be forgotten. Susan’s passing is a tragic loss, but her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.
To Susan’s family, we extend our deepest condolences. We know that no words can ease the pain of losing someone so dear, but we hope that you find comfort in knowing that Susan’s love will never fade. Her memory will be carried on by her children, her grandchildren, her siblings, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Susan’s spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she leaves behind.
Susan Rourke was a remarkable woman whose kindness and love knew no bounds. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched. As we say goodbye to Susan, we remember the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. May she rest in peace, knowing that her life made the world a better place for everyone who had the honor of crossing her path.
The post Susan Rourke Obituary Saint John: Susan Rourke Has Passed Away first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
