On August 4, 2025, Susan Heard Spear peacefully passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer.   She leaves a legacy of grace, strength and kindness that enriched the lives of all who knew her. 

Sue’s memory will be celebrated by her devoted nieces,Meg, Katie, Brenda, Lynn, Karen, Sharon and Linda and grandnieces, Delaney, Anna, Emma, Kalena, Shauna, and Melissa C and Melissa P. ; her nephews, Timothy and Jim as well as grand nephews, Corydon, Adam, Christopher, Tyler, Keone and Quinn.   She is survived by her two stepsons, Peter and Jeff, and a beloved granddaughter, Iris.  Sue was also blessed to have several close friends who became family to her throughout her life, as well as countless friends, neighbors and coworkers.    

Sue married the love of her life, Richard Spear in 1995. After receiving her Ed.D  from the University of Rochester, Sue was a supervisor at RIT’s Learning Development Center.   She later became a Certified Education Therapist and  launched Cognitive Connections, a private practice, working with adults and children.   

A native of Erie, PA, she was an avid sailor and waterskiier, and enjoyed hiking with her dogs.    She was an accomplished antique aficionado, and enjoyed entertaining friends and family.

In lieu of flowers , the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in her name to Hospice of Monroe County, Rochester Regional Health Foundation, 330 Monroe Ave. Suite 400, Rochester, NY 14607.

A Celebration of Life will be hosted this autumn by family and friends.