Francis J. Susie Jr., veteran, federal retiree

Francis J. Susie Jr., 81, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. He died from service-connected lung cancer. Francis was born in Baltimore, Md., to Francis J. Susie Sr. and Anne M. Susie (nee Witt). Everyone who knew Francis loved, respected, and admired him. He is profoundly missed.

Francis dedicated his career to public service. He served in the Navy, both on active duty and in the Naval Reserves. After graduating from the University of Baltimore with a bachelor of science degree, he was recruited by the Department of Defense. He worked as a federal civilian employee for nearly 40 years, serving multiple overseas tours with his family. Francis’ sense of duty was so strong that he was one of a few civilian employees who volunteered to serve during both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. He received numerous commendations and accolades for his exemplary work and service to his country. After retiring from federal service, Francis called Milton home with his wife and beloved fur children. His values and work ethic compelled him to continue to serve his country and his community. He was a longtime AARP volunteer, assisting his local community with free tax preparation. He also worked in Georgetown for Delaware Division of Revenue.

Francis’ commitment to his country was only exceeded by his commitment to his family. He was a loving and caring husband, and a kind and gentle father. His career provided him and his family the opportunity to experience many cultures. They lived abroad and traveled to multiple countries, which instilled and nurtured a deep sense of appreciation and respect for the diversity of humanity. He was impossibly patient and kind; being known for his easy-going nature. He patiently nurtured and taught his children the value of hard work, education, curiosity, the endless pursuit of lifelong learning, and the recognition that the beauty in life can be found everywhere, even in the direst circumstances.

Francis was endlessly thoughtful and generous. He once sold his Mercedes to a neighbor in need for only $1.00. Perhaps one of the traits known only to those closest to him was his quirky sense of humor (think Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold). Some highlights of his family vacations include driving the giant family station wagon through the narrow streets of Italy turning heads wherever he drove (expectedly, the station wagon was broken into and all of the family belongings were stolen, including dirty laundry); camping in a so-called inactive volcano crater that had such strong tremors it shook his family out of bed; a tense and comical border crossing into Communist East Germany; and in Africa, scarcely talking his way out of his daughter being traded for a few rugs and camels. Francis always created memorable events whether on vacation or enjoying time at home. He was the heart of his family.

Francis is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 57 years, Frances A. Susie (nee Drega); his daughter, Karen Susie; his son-in-law, Guy Campagna; his daughter, Danielle Gibson; his granddaughters, Eva, Catherine and Julianna Gibson; his sister, Barbara A. Susie-Stump; his brother, John P. Susie; his sister-in-law, Dr. Joan Drega, DC; and his beloved cat daughters, Freya, Toonie and Lucy Susie. And his most favorite grand cat, Arnold.

Services and interment will be held at a future date in Arlington National Cemetery.

Final care for Francis has been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.

In lieu of flowers, Francis would truly appreciate any donations, no matter the amount, be made to Brandywine Valley SPCA.

Visit Francis' Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.