Susan Lee Lewis, 66, passed away on May 19, 2014 at Unihealth-PAC, N. Augusta, SC. Susan, a long time resident of Gainesville and a true Gator fan, was born on July 22, 1947. She loved education, achieving a masters degree at the University of Florida. Later she taught as a graduate student while pursuing her PhD. She was admired by both faculty and students for her helpful manner, warmth, and sincerity, as well as her love of history and other cultures.
Susan’s master’s thesis, “Siren’s Song: Evangelicalism and Civil Religion (1994),” explored her fascination with and how she was inspired by people who came to terms with their humanity, often by finding an inner faith that carried them through difficult times.
Beyond her love of learning, Susan was a person with a profound faith. And ultimately her faith gave her peace as her body finally gave in to her physical infirmities that prevented her from achieving her PhD.
Susan is survived by her mother, Dorothy E. Boltz of Aiken, SC; a sister, Carol Boltz-Leindecker, also of Aiken, SC; and a nephew, Evan Leindecker, of Greenville, SC.
A memorial service for Susan will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Forest Meadows Funeral Home in Gainesville, FL.
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved One and my deepest condolences to the family. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding guard your broken heart at this time of sorrow. (Philippians 4:6,7)
Susan was among the first students admitted into the Master of Arts program in the Department of Religion at the University of Florida and among the very best. Her maturity, discernment, and natural empathy enabled her to contribute helpful perspectives in classroom discussions that were part of her graduate-level training and also made her a fine guide to younger students while teaching her own classes. Her quiet, yet alert and welcoming, manner allowed her to put others at ease, and made them want to listen when she spoke. It was a real privilege to be among her university colleagues, and she will be deeply missed as well as happily remembered.
Ms. Lewis was a dear sweet and clever woman, always full of cheerfulness, wisdom, and wit. I had the privilege of having her as a sophomore in college and the immense blessing of forming a strong close-knit bond where she and I became like family. Her reassuring smile, special way of encouraging, and well-known sense of humor will sorely be missed. She is and will always be one of those significant people whose insightfulness and guidance will live on eternally in the hearts of all those who loved and cherished her.
I knew Susan when she taught at Santa Fe College. She was a caring, thoughtful teacher who always tried to work with her students, especially those with difficult situations. I knew she had serious health issues, and admired her determination to continue her research despite her limitations.
I knew Susan from riding the no.8 bus with her in Gainesville. We had many interesting and fruitful conversations. I will not be in town for the memorial but my thoughts will be with her family.
I only knew her from the bus and an occasiona coffee at Shands but she was part of my life for quite a while. I will miss her.
Blessings,
Sr. Ann Case
I knew Susan from working at UF Genetics and Cancer Center. She was a good friend, good listener, and very supportive and very caring human being. My condolences go to the family and I’m sure Heaven is holding a good place for her.