Susan (Lily) John

Mrs. Susan John, also known as Lily, was a beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished daughter, sister, and an exceptional nurse dedicated to caring for others. She left this world on February 17, 2025, leaving a profound legacy of love, strength, and compassion.

Born in Mumbai, India, to Mariamma and Thomas Mathew, Susan was the second of five siblings - Jose, Elcy, Lizy, and Joy. From a young age, she displayed incredible intelligence, resilience, and determination, working tirelessly to support her family while excelling in her studies. Her passion for healing led her to Sion Hospital, where she obtained her nursing degree, marking the beginning of an extraordinary 40-year career in nursing. One of the most honorable moments of her career was being the immediate nurse to Pope John  Paul II during his visit to Mumbai, India. Susan also was a great teacher. Her love for teaching began at a very young age - as a child, she tutored students younger than she, helping them excel in their studies. This passion for teaching grew stronger as she pursued nursing, and she became a dedicated mentor and educator for many throughout her lifetime.

Her nursing journey took her to Saudi Arabia, where she gained invaluable experiences. During this time, she married her best friend, John Antony, in 1989. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and unwavering commitment to their family. They settled in Tamil Nadu, India, where Susan balanced motherhood, nursing, and entrepreneurship - she not only raised two children, Dr. Aniesha John and Ashwin John, but also pursued her passions, establishing her salon and mastering various handicrafts such as embroidery, knitting, and beauty care. She played a vital role in assisting her husband in starting IT-based businesses using her organizational and leadership skills.

In 2004, the family immigrated to the United States, settling in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Susan continued her nursing career at Temple University Hospital and dialysis centers, earning the prestigious DAISY Award, a testament to her compassionate care, clinical excellence, and unwavering dedication throughout her distinguished nursing career.

A devout Christian, Susan's faith in Jesus and Mary was unwavering. She lived by kindness, forgiveness, and philanthropy, always finding ways to uplift those around her. Her ability to turn life experiences into lessons, her unshakable optimism, and her heartfelt jokes and infectious laughter made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

Her love for her family was immeasurable. She was a pillar of strength to her husband and a selfless, loving mother to her children. Though she faced the heartbreaking loss of her son, Ashwin John, in 2013, she carried on with grace and resilience, always finding joy in the memories they shared. Recently, she joyfully welcomed her son-on-law, Melvin Francis, into the family, embracing him with the same warmth and love she gave her children.

Susan was a woman of may talents, boundless love, and unwavering faith. She leaves behind her husband, John Antony; daughter, Dr. Aniesha John; son-in-law, Melvin Francis; siblings, Jose Elcy, Lizy, and Joy; and a large circle of family and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was the heart of our family, and while we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the incredible life she lived. Her stories, wisdom, laughter, and love will live on in all of us.

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