News Summary
Susanne Graff Henderson, an esteemed mother and grandmother, died peacefully at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of love and academic pursuits. Born in Pittsburgh, she excelled in her career while embracing family life, adapting to military relocations across the globe. Susanne’s later years were filled with travel and friendships, especially with her partner Charles. A visitation and memorial service will honor her remarkable life, encouraging donations to Alzheimer’s research in her memory.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Susanne Graff Henderson, a cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by family. Her passing marks the end of a life filled with love, generosity, and academic pursuit.
Born on March 13, 1937, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Susanne was the daughter of Raymond and Bessie Graff. She grew up in Blairsville, Pennsylvania, alongside her older sister, Gretchen. A proud graduate of Blairsville High School, she earned her diploma as part of the Class of 1955 and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree from Allegheny College in 1959. Later in life, Susanne sought further education and received a master’s degree from Troy State University, graduating in 1978.
In 1962, Susanne married Donn M. Ruddock, and together they welcomed two children, Bruce and Laura. As a military officer’s spouse, she adeptly managed a mobile household, adapting to frequent relocations that took their family to various states and countries including Alabama, New Jersey, North Dakota, Guam, and Greece. Throughout this time, she maintained a professional career, working in management at SATO travel offices at Fort Eustis, Virginia, and in Florida. Susanne was known for her precision and her genuine love for people, traits that defined both her personal and professional life.
In the early 1990s, Susanne found companionship with Charles “Opa” Henderson. Their relationship enriched her life with travel and the establishment of lasting friendships, forming a social group affectionately known as “The Usual Suspects.” Through her marriage to Charles, she gained an extended family which brought her immense joy.
Susanne’s family expanded further when she became a grandmother, first welcoming Thadd in 1995, followed by Haley in 1997, and Evan in 2004. In addition to her grandchildren, she was also blessed with a great-grandson and numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren, including Christina Fontaine, Sandra Martin, Katherine Cannon, Glenn Smith II, and Lindsay Holmes, among others.
Susanne is survived by her son Bruce Ruddock and daughter Laura Sowinski, as well as stepchildren Martha Larkin, Peggy Hunsucker, and Terry Cole. Her grandchildren include Evan Ruddock, Thaddeus Sowinski, and Haley Coronado, alongside her numerous step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held in her honor at Nelsen Williamsburg on October 25, 2025, starting at 2:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3:30 p.m. For those unable to attend, the memorial service will be live-streamed. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to be made in her memory to UsAgainstAlzheimer’s or the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund.
With her passing, Susanne leaves behind a legacy of love, support, and an unwavering dedication to family and friends that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Remembering Frances Alice Hurlburt: A Legacy of Education and Leadership
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Susanne Henderson
- Wikipedia: Williamsburg, Virginia
- Wydaily: James John Joseph Jr.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Williamsburg
- Wydaily: Frances Alice Hurlburt
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
