Susan Prendergast

PRENDERGAST, Susan Mirinda, 73, passed away at her Springfield home March 19, 2014, with her beloved family by her side. Susan was born October 18th, 1940 in Ravenna, Ohio to Tony and Florence Massari. She is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Tom. In addition, Susan is survived by children Daniel (Tracy), David (Sheila), Tommy (Gina) and Monica (Gordon) Mattingly. She leaves nine grandchildren: Landon, Meghan, Ryan, Kinsley, Anthony, Abigail, Shawn, Samuel and Mariella; as well as her dear sister Elaine (Dave) Stewart of Naples, FL. She will join her cherished parents, and sisters Annmarie Boggs and Mirinda Foti. Susan lived in Northeast Ohio until 1981, where she raised her family while obtaining her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Akron in 1981. She then relocated with Tom to Springfield, where she impacted countless young lives as a teacher for 15 years at Emerson and Simon Kenton elementary schools. Susan also carried on her mother's culinary talents and was renowned for her cooking. She was a master party and vacation planner, creating happy and often hilarious memories including countless backyard pool gatherings! But Susan's greatest accomplishment was her relentless devotion to multiple generations of family and friends in times, both good and bad. She provided loving care to her family, including relocating her father to Springfield. She unconditionally loved her children through numerous peaks and valleys, providing compassionate but firm direction. She spent many nights waiting and worrying about her children, and even after they left home she never hesitated to travel at a moment's notice to meet their needs. She continued this trend by doting on her grandchildren, who affectionately called her "Mama Sue." Finally, she was a loving wife to her high school sweetheart whom she had known since grade school. She accompanied Tom throughout Ohio during his college and work careers. She supported him through countless decisions, including providing care during times of illness. During retirement, the couple rekindled their romance through extended trips to Europe, Florida, and other locations. She was Tom's lifetime soulmate. Susan's words about family written last year for a reunion book show her devout faith: "Both (mine and Tom's) families were given by God the gift of faithfulness. Their prayers were never for selfish reasons but simply to express their trust in Him and ask for guidance for their family and friends." Susan was a member of Saint Teresa Catholic Church where a mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. Calling hours will be held on Friday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the CONROY FUNERAL HOME. Burial will follow in St. Bernard Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Susan's memory may be made to any of the following organizations: Community Mercy Hospice, 444 W. Harding Rd., Springfield, OH 45504, Community Mercy Home Care, 1111 N. Plum St., Suite 4, Springfield, OH 45504 and Springfield Regional Cancer Center, 148 W. North St., Springfield, OH 45504