Susan Luzzi

Susan Francis Luzzi (née Smeby), 82, of New Milford, Connecticut, and a longtime resident of Ridgefield, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026.

Susan was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, on May 9, 1944, to the late Norman and Charlotte (née Francis) Smeby. Susan and her family moved frequently, eventually settling in Chatham, New Jersey where she graduated from high school. She attended St. Lawrence University receiving a Bachelor of Science in mathematics and computer technology.  Shortly after graduating she began her career at IBM, where she met her husband, Joseph Luzzi. They spent their early years together in Farmingdale, New York, before relocating to Ridgefield, Connecticut, to raise their family. She dedicated many years to the Ridgefield Public Schools community, volunteering in numerous roles before working as a technology paraprofessional and eventually in the IT department for the Board of Education where she met many lifelong friends.  Later in life, she continued her commitment to serving others as a volunteer board member within her community.

Susan was known for her warmth, kindness, infectious smile and warm hugs that made everyone around her feel welcome. She cared deeply, cried when she was happy, and would do anything for the people she loved most. She was a gifted listener, a natural empathizer, and a source of unwavering support for family and friends alike. Her home was a gathering place where everyone felt comfortable, welcome, and cared for. Many of her children's friends spent so much time there that they came to think of Susan as a second mother.

Family was at the center of Susan's life. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, reading stories, putting together puzzles, playing games, and simply enjoying their company. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate birthdays and special occasions, often sending thoughtful cards and notes that made people feel remembered and loved. Susan had a remarkable ability to put others first and found joy in caring for those around her.

She enjoyed playing the piano and would often sing in the house with or without an audience. An avid reader, she could often be found with a book in hand, enjoying everything from history and classic literature to romance and comedy. She loved beautiful sunsets, crocheting blankets and clothing for her grandchildren, playing bridge, traveling with close friends, and hosting family gatherings and holidays. Her favorite comforts in life were simple ones: a good book, a warm fire, and time spent with family.

Susan also had a playful sense of humor. She was known for tearing up when she laughed, her legendary triple sneezes, and her complete lack of athletic coordination. Family members often joked that she could trip over her own shadow and that throwing a ball was never among her many talents. She laughed right along with them and never took herself too seriously.

She loved animals and seemed to have a special gift with the family dogs, who always considered her their favorite person. She also enjoyed shopping with loved ones in mind, delighting in finding the perfect gift or surprise for someone she cared about.  

In retirement, Susan enjoyed traveling, spending time with her grandchildren, and lovingly supporting—and occasionally humoring—Joe's many creative projects and adventures. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and generosity.

She leaves behind a family who adored her and will miss her deeply: Kathleen Moonan, her husband Terrance, and their children Ryan and Courtney; Kimberly Getz and her children Brett and Kyle; Joseph Mark Luzzi and his children Gavin, Normandy, and Aprilia; and John Thomas Luzzi, his wife Jacqueline, and their children Charlotte and Madeleine.

Susan's kindness, grace, generosity, and devotion to family will remain with all who knew her. Her smile, her laughter, and the love she shared so freely will be remembered always.

A Celebration of Susan's Life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at her residence, 4 Rainbow Court, New Milford, Connecticut.

In keeping with Susan's wishes, this will be a casual gathering where family and friends are invited to stop by, share stories, reminisce, laugh, and celebrate the life of a woman who brought so much kindness, warmth, and joy to those around her. Together, we will remember the many happy moments she created with family and friends. All who knew and loved her are welcome.