Fiskdale: Susan L. French, 75, of Leadmine Road, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday, January 29, at UMass Harrington–Southbridge, following a brief illness.

She leaves her son, Marc D. French, and his wife Erin of Sturbridge; her brother, John M. Milne of Monson; her niece, Alyssa Milne of Ludlow and cousin JoAnn Sandgren of Southbridge.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Earl David French, in 2022.

Susan was born in Springfield, the daughter of George P. and Dolores R. (Phillips) Milne. Although Ludlow was her first home, she grew up spending much of her time at the family lake house in Sturbridge. It was there that she met her future husband, Dave, and where they eventually settled down to raise their family.

Susan spent most of her professional life in the local fiber-optics industry, working for American Optical, Applied Fiberoptics, SWISS Precision, and several other companies. She was proud of her work as a materials planner and operations manager. Even after retiring, Susan felt a strong pull to stay connected with people and spent time working at Stop & Shop and Marshalls, where her warm smile and friendly nature brightened the days of customers and coworkers alike.

Above all else, Susan cherished her family and friends. Whether enjoying Christmas gatherings in Ludlow or cookouts at the lake, she loved bringing people together—often with laughter, stories, and her famous potato salad. She found joy in tending her flowers, working in the yard, and faithfully cheering on her favorite team, the New England Patriots. A lifelong dog lover, Susan will be deeply missed by her four-legged companion, Sadie.

Funeral services will be private, and there are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Susan's memory to Second Chance Animal Shelter .

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton Street, Southbridge, is assisting the family with arrangements.