Obituary of Susan Mary Papa

Retired nurse Susan Papa's love of life did not come to an end with her death on April 5, 2023, after a short illness. Sue will be remembered by loved ones who will continue to honor her memory by living their lives to the fullest.

Sue was born on October 11, 1955, in Northampton, MA.  She was the daughter of the late Robert and Phyllis (Reed) Ravish and grew up with seven siblings in Leeds Village, MA. Sue graduated from Northampton High School and earned an Associates Degree in Nursing from Holyoke Community College.  She was a registered nurse for most of her career at the Soldiers Home, Holyoke, MA.

Sue married the love of her life, Samuel Papa, of Revere, MA in 2001 and they moved to Florida years later.

Sue's passions were varied and extensive. She was a lover of music, reading, old cars, cooking, walking, yoga, gardening, libraries, thrift stores, and sewing. Most of all, Sue loved her large family and especially her five grandchildren.
Sue possessed a wonderful sense of humor as when she would enjoy her favorite candy, Smarties, and tell Sam: "You are what you eat." Everyone appreciated Sue's spicy demeanor and positive outlook. She will be greatly missed.

Sue is survived by her husband, Samuel Papa, of Titusville, FL; son Scott Callahan and his wife, Jessica, and their daughters, Ellie and Nora, of Easthampton, MA; daughter Laura Diefenderfer and her husband Capt. James, USN, and their sons, James, Luke, and Casey; brother Daniel Ravish of Elizabethton, TN; sister Judy Madzunovic of Westhampton, MA; sister Sandy Milo of Northampton, MA; sister Nancy Mathers and husband Tim of Florence, MA; sister Laura McDonald of Chattanooga, TN; sister Rebecca Skubiszewski of South Hadley, MA; brother Robert Ravish of Greenfield, MA, along with 13 nieces and nephews.
Sam's daughter and son, Jenn Daley and Brian Papa, both of Washington; and Sam's brother, Robert V. Papa, of Revere, MA.

A private memorial service celebrating the life of Sue and to express our shared love of her will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in Sue's memory to Saint Jude Children's Hospital at www.stjude.org.