Susan Beers

Susan Beers, 65 of Peterborough, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on November 21, 2023.   She was born in Winchendon, MA on May 23, 1958, the daughter and youngest of four children, to Albert and Maxine (Moses) Minckler.

Whether you knew her as Sue, Susan, Mom or Granni, she was at her best with her hands in the dirt or feet walking on a trail. She was a talented photographer, chef, and organic gardener of flowers, fruit and vegetables. She preferred to be busy in nature, hiking a trail, walking or biking along the roads of Hancock with her dogs. She loved her small town and created her own backyard oasis of flowers and feeders to the delight of the birds and sometimes the bears. Her children and grandchildren were sources of pride and if dementia had not taken her life, she would have been the “fun hiking Granni” she planned to be.

She was a strong willed woman who overcame many obstacles in her young years. Raised in a military family, she traveled abroad to Africa and graduated from North Middlesex High School in Townsend, MA.  She and our father were young parents who worked hard to provide a safe, stable and caring home. Sue was determined to be her own boss and began her cleaning business out of her house with a plan and a van. Neatly Done was founded in 1989 and continues to be a thriving business. Fun fact: our mom wanted to be a nutritionist and help others live a healthy life. While she was a business owner, she attended Keene State college and despite her grit she was not able to overcome a few chemistry formulas.

She was quite vibrant and healthy until a decline occurred. Dementia and depression emerged and for several years were self-managed with alcohol.

Sue is survived by her daughters Darlene and Erica, her four grandchildren, and beloved and feisty rescue cat Sassy. She has certainly passed down her DIY nature, independence, critical thinking, and determination in all of us.

In lieu of flowers or donations we wish for you to take a walk in nature, plant a dahlia in your backyard, find beauty and gratitude in small moments. Judge others not for what you think you see, but be curious and gentle. Depression and dementia are often hard to see in the early stages, and at times, even harder to understand. To learn more about Frontotemporal Dementia: https://www.alz.org .

Mom, you are dearly missed but your memory is as strong as you are.   Please share your memories, mourn and celebrate her life with us at Susan’s tribute page at www.jellisonfuneralhome.com