Susan Jane Marcheski, 77, of Edgewater, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on September 18, 1948, in Vienna, Austria, Susan was the daughter of Winefred Cooke and Col. Horace Cooke, U.S. Army, Ret. Her military upbringing helped Susan develop a deep appreciation for family, resilience, and community.

Susan received a bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education and devoted many years of her life to teaching at Charlesmont Elementary, Bay View Elementary, and Gilpin Manor Elementary in Maryland, as well as St. John the Beloved in Delaware. She also founded the YMCA daycare program in Elkton, Maryland. She touched the lives of countless children with patience, kindness, and encouragement. She carried that nurturing spirit beyond the classroom and into every aspect of her life.

In addition to her professional career, she served as the President of the Salisbury Newcomers Club that raised thousands of dollars that were donated to local charities, served on the Education Council of Immaculate Conception School in Elkton, and volunteered as a 4H leader for her children’s club.

She shared 55 loving years of marriage with her devoted husband, Dr. John Marcheski, whom she married on August 22, 1970. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Susan was a beloved mother to Christopher Marcheski, Benjamin Marcheski, and Amy Heckert, and mother-in-law to Claire Marcheski and Scott Heckert. She was also a cherished sister to Michael Cooke.

Known affectionately as “Mimi,” Susan found her greatest joy among her grandchildren: Savannah, Zackary, Tyler, William, Christina, Samuel, Lola, Winnie, and Thomas. Her love for them was endless, and she was deeply proud of each of them in their own unique way.

After retirement, Susan and John made their home in Edgewater, Florida, where she enjoyed being near the ocean she loved so dearly. She found peace and happiness in the coastal lifestyle, pink flamingos, the beauty of the beach, and the simple moments shared with those closest to her.

Susan was passionate about crafts and décor, and one of her favorite signs in the house simply said, “Never, Never Give Up,” and that truly became the story of her life. Through every challenge, especially her long battle to overcome Leukemia, she kept fighting with courage, grace, and determination. She never gave up on hope, her family, or on the people she loved.

Susan will be remembered for her strength, devotion to family, and the kindness she extended to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love and perseverance will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 454 Bow St., Elkton, MD 21921, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30.