The Life and Legacy of Susie Nelson Brown
Susie Nelson (Atwood) Brown, 48, of Park City, Utah, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Her life was marked by warmth, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved. Born on October 22, 1975, in Morristown, New Jersey, Susie leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Beloved Family Member
Susie was the cherished wife of Dan Brown and the devoted mother of two sons, Graham and Hudson. To her family, she was not just a caregiver but also a source of strength and joy. Her laughter filled their home, creating memories that will be treasured forever. As the daughter of Roger and Jill Atwood and sister to Kim (Tim) Brady, Amy, and Jay Atwood, Susie's presence brought light into every corner of her family’s lives.
A Dedicated Professional
Professionally, Susie worked at Woodward Park City, where she earned the nickname mother of Woodward Park City. Colleagues remember her as someone who possessed an extraordinary ability to see the good in everyone and bring it out effortlessly. In times of frustration or anger, Susie was known for calming emotions and fostering understanding. Her dedication extended beyond her job description; she became a mentor and friend to many within the organization.
A Connector of Hearts
Outside of work, Susie was the glue that held relationships together. Whether it was organizing gatherings or simply lending a listening ear, she had a unique talent for uniting people through her warmth and positivity. Her infectious laugh could brighten even the darkest days, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to encounter her. Susie's ability to create meaningful connections made her a beloved figure in both personal and professional circles.
An Educational Passion
In another facet of her life, Susie shared her passion for teaching as the second-grade teacher at a local school. Known for her love of education, she believed in nurturing young minds and instilling a lifelong curiosity in her students. Her enthusiasm for learning inspired countless children, making her classroom a place of growth and discovery.
A Leader in Manufacturing Excellence
In a different context, Susie also excelled as a Product System Senior Manager at Kimberly-Clark's Beech Island facility. With over 25 years of experience, she championed safety, quality, delivery, cost management, and cultural development across manufacturing operations. Despite her firm belief in structured processes and lean principles, Susie prioritized building genuine connections with her team members. By understanding what motivated them, she fostered trust and collaboration, driving organizational health, safety improvements, and significant profit margin growth.
A Commitment to Community
Beyond her professional achievements, Susie dedicated much of her time to community service. As the Executive Director of the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley since 2007, she played a pivotal role in expanding its impact. Under her leadership, the foundation tripled its annual grantmaking from $1 million to $3 million, benefiting communities throughout the Upper Ohio Valley region. Her involvement extended further, serving on boards such as Leave A Legacy of Central Appalachia, Wheeling Health Right, and the YWCA Wheeling.
A Voice for Change
Susie's passions extended into areas like healthcare and wellness. As a healthcare provider specializing in diabetes treatment, she educated patients—especially children and families—on the importance of healthy eating and lifestyle choices. Her compassion and expertise improved countless lives, offering hope and guidance to those navigating complex medical challenges.
A Judicial Role in Kayenta
In yet another chapter of her life, Susie served as Justice of the Peace at the Kayenta Justice Court, located on the Navajo reservation near Monument Valley. This position allowed her to contribute to justice and fairness in a culturally rich environment, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to public service.
The world is undoubtedly dimmer without Susie Nelson Brown, but her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. Through her work, family, and community involvement, Susie left an indelible mark that continues to shine brightly, reminding us of the power of kindness, connection, and purpose-driven living.
