J. (Suzie) Susan Leich, 1956-2022

J. (Suzie) Susan Leich  was born Tuesday, March 13, 1956 in Columbus, Ohio .

she died Sunday, November 27, 2022. her recorded age was 66.

her remains can be found at Flint Cemetery in plot 4  - lot 23  - space #1 North SE Corner (view map) .
Arrangements were made by Dudley Hoffman Mortuary. The burial took place on Thursday, January 19, 2023.
Contact Walnut Grove and Flint Cemeteries for more information.

J. Susan Leich passed away on November 27th after an extended illness. She is survived by her sister, Carol Leich D'Alessio and husband Nick, Nephew, Neil and wife, Asenath and grand nieces, Ayana and Amali, as well as life-long friend, Judy Cunningham. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Penny Leich, brother, George, and her partner of 16 years, Melchor (Mike) Lagua.

"Suzie" lived with her family in Worthington, Ohio and graduated from St. Francis High School, Columbus Ohio in 1974. In 1978, she moved to the Santa Maria area with her parents. Despite the challenges of a development disability, Sue was very accomplished, living independently, and even learning to drive. Throughout her career she held many positions, doing salad prep work and piece work at various sites. She voluntarily held a shift as caregiver for both her parents during the last five years of their lives.

She enjoyed needle work, particularly needlepoint and made many lovely items. She received a First-Place prize for one of her needle point pictures at the California State Fair in 1983. Sue loved animals especially dogs, cats, and horses. She volunteered at the Santa Maria Humane Society and adopted three cats from there over the years.

Sue had many friends who enjoyed her cheery smile, generally happy disposition and kind heartedness. Sue loved to travel with her parents and later with her sister, Carol she with liked to see new places and meet new people; however, she was always happy to return home. She especially enjoyed celebrating Christmas and will be sorely missed this year.

Sue will be interred in the family site at the Walnut Grove Cemetery, in Worthington, Ohio. At Sue's request, no service will be held. Gifts in her memory may be sent to The Santa Maria Humane Society, or Orcutt Presbyterian Church.