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Susan Connolly, 76, passed away on November 13 after a tragic car accident that left her paralyzed from the neck down. Even in the most difficult moments, Susan’s quiet grace, determination, and deep love for her community never wavered. She believed Palm Bay had the potential to embrace green development and adopt environmentally conscious practices, and she devoted herself to advocating for a healthier and more sustainable future.
She was beloved by her family, friends, and countless members of the community. Susan had a rare gift for making every person she met feel valued and seen. She wished to be remembered by her own words:
“I lived life lovingly. I have lived as I have wanted, and I have chosen. My greatest achievement was learning how to forgive and release judgment and resentment. My legacy is my assurance to you that I have lived my life well, and I loved you, my family and my friends.”
Susan was a passionate community activist in Palm Bay. She served for several years on the Palm Bay Sustainability Advisory Board and frequently spoke at Palm Bay City Council meetings to advocate for issues she believed in. She was also a treasured member of the Greater Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce family. Susan volunteered her time to cover the chamber office during monthly luncheons, often accompanied by her beloved dog, Maggie May. In 2021, the chamber recognized her as Volunteer of the Year, and she was honored with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from U.S. Congressman Bill Posey.
Her vision and leadership helped inspire the chamber’s Brevard Prosperity Initiative. Susan was moved by the Florida Chamber of Commerce’s statewide poverty mapping project, which identified the ten root causes of poverty in each zip code. After she urged the chamber to livestream the annual Prosperity Summit, the effort grew into a powerful and committed network of community members working to create lasting change. She worked tirelessly to bring people together around this cause, and the initiative continues to flourish because of her dedication.
Susan’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of many. Those who knew her will forever miss this dynamic and powerful “little lady” whose determination and compassion were unmatched. She was a force for good, and her efforts will help shape a better future for generations to come.
