Susan Marie Smith

Susan Marie Smith (née Clarkin), passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at her home in Sun City, Arizona, at the age of 73.

Susan was truly a force of nature—radiant, spirited, and endlessly joyful. She was the heart of our family, a source of constant laughter, and a light in the lives of all who knew her. Born and raised in St. Paul, Minnesota, she carried her warmth, resilience, and vibrant spirit with her wherever life took her.

She leaves behind a legacy defined by love, connection, and generosity of heart. She will be profoundly missed by her husband, Gordon Smith; her children, Rina Eighmey (Kevin) and Clark Poppitz (Stacey); and her cherished bonus children, Kris Whitt (Bryan), Becky Sells (Tim), Jenny Smith, David Smith, and Tracy Smith. Her love lives on through her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Theresa Sarafolean and Terrence Clarkin, and her brother, Timothy Clarkin.

Susan had striking blue eyes, a smile that could light up any room, and a laugh that was utterly contagious. She possessed a rare gift for making others feel seen, heard, and deeply valued. To know her was to be touched by her kindness and her unmistakable zest for life.

A lifelong fan of the Minnesota Vikings, she rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on. She delighted in life’s simple pleasures—playing cards, losing herself in a good book, treasure-hunting in thrift stores, and sharing long, heartfelt conversations with dear friends. Her deep spirituality grounded her, and her devotion to family and friendship defined her life.

Susan was especially grateful for the enduring friendships that enriched her journey, including Julie Chamberlain, Lisa Erickson, Rose Sinks, and Karen Harper, as well as the caring community she found at Carefree Country Club.

She held a deep compassion for both people and animals, was a devoted advocate for their well-being, and found great joy in her beloved dogs, Annabelle and Lil Man.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 14 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Mueller Lake Mortuary, with a time for sharing beginning at 3:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to New Leash on Life in Lebanon, Tennessee; your local food shelf; Special Olympics; or a women’s shelter of your choice.

New Leash on Life / The Joy Clinic

507 Jim Draper Blvd, Lebanon, TN

www.newleashonline.org