Susan Herron Hale, affectionately known as Sue, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025, in Montclair, California, after a brief illness. Born on July 28, 1942, in Southbridge, Massachusetts, Sue lived a life marked by creativity, kindness, and dedication to both her family and career.

Sue was a gifted educator, beginning her professional journey as a high school English teacher in Connecticut and New Hampshire. Renowned for her sharp wit and warm humor, she touched the lives of countless students, delivering lessons that extended beyond literature into life’s invaluable teachings. Her natural ability to gauge engagement and emotions was legendary; even during her pacemaker implant procedure in September 2025, Sue demonstrated her keen observational skills and humor by catching the surgical team’s boredom with an impromptu, wry remark that brought shared laughter and lightened the atmosphere.

After her rewarding career in education, Sue transitioned to the technical side of industry, creating and editing proposals for Hughes Aircraft Company’s GSG division. Her talent and tenacity earned her a promotion to Deputy Program Manager, a testament to her effectiveness and leadership. Following her departure from Hughes, she embraced entrepreneurial ventures, managing store operations and teaching quilting classes at The Fabric Patch, consulting privately for fabric companies in New York City, and serving as Marketing Director for Red Rooster Fabrics. Her passion for the art of quilting culminated in the publication of her 2007 book, "Memories on Fabric," through C & T Publishing.

Sue’s academic achievements were as distinguished as her career path. She graduated from Stoneham High School in 1960 before earning a Bachelor of Arts in English from UMASS Amherst in 1964, where she was an active member of Pi Beta Phi. Later, she attained an MBA from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona in 1981, earning honors and serving as a coordinator for small business development centers, supporting both local and international business growth.

Her interests were wide-ranging and deeply cultivated. An artist at heart, Sue excelled in watercolor, acrylic, and oil painting techniques. Her creative spirit found expression in sewing, designing, and hand appliqué quilting art. She was an avid reader with a penchant for historical fiction, cherishing more than 100 favorite authors. Puzzles and organization sparked joy for her, as did researching family history—each hobby reflecting her thoughtful, tenacious, and meticulous nature.

Above all, Sue’s proudest accomplishments were her two sons, Robert D. Hale and Matthew L. Hale, whom she loved dearly. At her side during her final moments were her “3 guys”: her beloved husband, Robert R. Hale, and her sons, to provide love and comfort.  

Sue was a woman who created beauty in every facet of her existence — from the garden she tended to the meals she lovingly prepared, from the quilts that carried stories to the warm hospitality she extended to visitors in her home. She was always thoughtful, especially in choosing meaningful gifts for relatives and friends, a reflection of her considerate and kind spirit.

She was predeceased by her mother, Anna Misiaszek Herron, her father, Lincoln Cheney Herron, and her cousin Joe Misiaszek. Though these loved ones have passed on, Sue’s legacy of warmth, humor, creativity, and unwavering devotion endures.

Susan Herron Hale leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories woven through her family, friends, and all those who were fortunate to know her. She will be remembered with deep respect and affection as a remarkable woman who lived fully, loved deeply, and inspired immeasurably.

Please comment and share a memory of Sue. We would really appreciate it. The family requests not sending flowers or gifts as your kind thoughts are more than enough. If you would like to make a charitable donation in Sue's name, we suggest the American Cancer Society or any organization important to you.