Suzanne Jerrett, 70, of Westville, Indiana, passed away at her home on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Suzanne was born on November 28, 1955, in Cortland, NY, to John Robert and Clara Francis (Dolloph) Cudworth.
Suzanne was compassionate, brilliant, and deeply loving. She had a gift for understanding people and making them feel seen. A feminist at her core, she moved through the world on her own terms, with independence, conviction, warmth, a sharp sense of humor, and an unmistakable laugh.
Suzanne had the courage to live a life true to who she was. In doing so, she instilled in her three daughters a strong sense of independence, resilience, and self-determination, encouraging them to pursue lives they chose.
Later in life, Suzanne found profound happiness with her wife, Elaine Burgher. Together, they built a life and home they loved, surrounded by music, animals, land, and a close-knit community.
Music was a constant in Suzanne's life. She began playing the drums at the age of four, and music remained a source of energy, comfort, and connection throughout her life.
As a therapist, Suzanne supported children growing up in families affected by addiction and abuse, individuals experiencing homelessness on the streets of Minneapolis, and families navigating complex challenges on the South Side of Chicago. She brought honesty, presence, and genuine care to her work, and her impact was felt deeply by the people she supported.
Suzanne's family was a source of deep meaning and joy in her life. She is survived by her wife, Elaine Burgher; her daughters, Eileen Jerrett (Jonathan Narmita), Colleen Jerrett (Chris Fairfield), and Amy Jerrett-Kotsenas (Matthew Kotsenas); her grandson, Eli Kotsenas; and a granddaughter on the way.
She is also survived by her sister, Jacqueline Cross (William Cross), as well as beloved extended family and many whose lives were shaped by her care.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Steven Cudworth; her father, John Robert Cudworth; her mother, Clara Francis Cudworth; her stepmother, Catherine Cudworth; and her stepdaughter, Rebecca Ryan Lavin-Burgher.
Suzanne lived vividly, boldly, and entirely as herself. Her love, humor, courage, and care will live on in her family and in the many lives she touched.
Arrangements are being handled by Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A Celebration of Life service will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Suzanne's memory by supporting one of the following organizations that reflect causes close to her heart:
- Women Drummers International: Supporting women, girls, and promoting the healing power of drumming. https://womendrummers.org
- The Dougy Center: Providing grief support for children, teens, young adults, and families. https://www.dougy.org
- Chicago Youth Programs: Supporting children and youth in Chicago through education, mentoring, health, and long-term opportunity. https://www.
Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.
