Susan Jane Roberts

Susan Jane Roberts drew her last breath on April 3, 2026, a few weeks shy of what would have been her 89th birthday. Born on April 28, 1937, in Walla Walla, Susan was a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, niece, cousin, aunt, colleague, and friend. Known for her warm smile, laugh, and mercurial nature, she leaves a lasting impression on all who knew her.

A rebel at heart, Susan attended the women's-only Stephens College where she would frequently sneak out of her dorm and slink down to the local juke joint to dance the night away. She loved to tell the story of how, on one such occasion, Fats Domino invited her to sit on top of his piano while singing Blueberry Hill.

Shortly thereafter, Susan transferred to the University of Oregon where she met the man who would ruin her life. Married in 1957, divorced in 1967, finding herself stuck with two children and a deadbeat ex-husband, she took the train home to Walla Walla where she began a new chapter of her life working as a secretary at Sherwood & Roberts, with many thanks to her father who was part owner of the company. Susan eventually found her way to the business office at Whitman College, where she dedicated more than 25 years of her professional life.

Susan was passionate about many things: playing bridge, reading, canning salsa, enjoying a cocktail or two, and spending money without a care in the world. Not one to dote on her children, she was a trailblazer in practicing free-range parenting and promoted early childhood independence by letting her children fend for themselves at an early age.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Austin and Cozette Roberts (Ely), her brother, Daniel Roberts, and her good for nothing ex-husband, who shall remain nameless. She is survived by her sister, Linda Schmidt (Roberts); her children, Cameron Lees and Kathryn Helean (Lees); and two grandchildren.

Susan will be remembered for her smile, generosity, and ability to give you a withering stare that could make your skin crawl and know you had definitely crossed a line. She was thankful the Lord gave her the life and children he did, and we are thankful he took her back.

A private family gathering will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the Blue Mountain Humane Society, https://www.bluemountainhumane.org