Susan Blair Wilkins' Obituary
Susan Blair Wilkins, age 71, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2015 at her home in Lewes, DE, with her family by her side. She was born October 28, 1943 in Raleigh, NC, daughter of the late Kenneth Dunton and Martha Blair (Bass) Phillips.
Ms. Wilkins was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, tennis partner, mahjong-canasta-pickle ball player, business and community leader. She grew up in the community of Round Bay in Severna Park, MD, where she participated in every team and water sport possible, throughout every season, including participating in the local Junior Olympics for diving. Ms. Wilkins was a member of the first graduating class of Severna Park High School and attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
While raising a family, Ms. Wilkins had a successful 20-year career in the banking and lending business, rising to executive positions with both Household Bank (now HSBC) and SunTrust Bank. She was an active community leader in the Baltimore-Annapolis area, and later in her career, focused on providing financial counseling and education to make home ownership a reality for underserved communities in Baltimore. She was often recognized for her business and leadership achievements.
After retiring to Lewes, Delaware, Ms. Wilkins remained active in both her community and in life. She served as Chairman of the Nassau Grove Clubhouse Committee, remained an avid tennis player, traveled around the world with friends, boasted a competitive golf game, and even started pickle ball leagues. Her favorite activity, however, was spending time with her family and very close friends. She was known for her incredibly positive outlook and inspiring attitude.
She is survived by her two daughters and sons-in-law: Blair and husband Joe Christie of Arnold, MD and Gillian and husband Dave Pommerehn of Annapolis, MD; five grandchildren: Julia, Cameron and Jamison Christie and Adler and Ellis Pommerehn; her twin sister Patricia and husband John Bucheimer of Frederick, MD and her brother Mike and wife Patricia Phillips of Ocean View, DE. Additionally, Ms. Wilkins leaves behind a dear friend of 55 years, Janet Hagan, nieces and nephews, her beloved dog Mugsy Malone and many, many cherished friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 2, 2015 at 1:00 PM at Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road Rehoboth Beach, DE. Internment will be private.
An additional reception will be held in Ms. Wilkins’ hometown of Annapolis, MD on July 11, 2015 at The Severn Inn on Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard.
The family wishes to extend its gratitude to all the staff at Beebe's Tunnell Cancer Center and Vitas Hospice Care for the wonderful care and support they provided Susan during her time of need.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that contributions be made to either of the following organizations in memory of Susan B. Wilkins: Beebe's Tunnell Cancer Center, c/o Beebe Medical Foundation, 424 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE 19958 or The Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation, 1100 Industrial Road, San Carlos, CA 94070.
Please sign Ms. Wilkins’ online guestbook at this site.
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