Susan Edwards

Susan “Sue” Diane Edwards (née Mark) August 17th, 1959 – July 9th, 2025

It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved Susan Diane Edwards on July 9th, 2025. A vibrant and extraordinary woman, Sue was taken from us far too soon.

Born on August 17th, 1959, in Brainerd, Minnesota, Sue was the cherished daughter of James and Rachel (née Johnson) Mark. She spent her formative years in Brainerd, graduating from Brainerd High School in 1977. A gifted singer, she was a member of the school's prestigious A Cappella Choir and joined them on their European tour in 1974. Music remained a lifelong passion for Sue—she frequently sang at family gatherings and public events, leaving lasting impressions with her beautiful voice.

Sue's warmth, generosity, and humor made her deeply loved by both childhood and lifelong friends. She lived life with an adventurous spirit and an open heart—always embracing new experiences and helping others along the way. Her poise, determination, and grace guided her through life’s challenges, and she faced them all with strength and compassion.

Sue met the love of her life, Paul Edwards, under truly memorable circumstances. Paul, then working on a military project for DARPA, was a self-described "grubby-handed wrench bender." Sue, meanwhile, was a sharp, no-nonsense security guard—armed and in charge. Their first encounter was at her gate, where she rigorously checked his credentials. When Paul jokingly asked if she needed to frisk him, she replied, “get out of my gatehouse, creep!” Paul smiled and said, “good answer;” and that was the beginning.

Over time, a friendship bloomed. They played cards during lunch breaks and danced together after work at a local venue where live music filled the air. On the dance floor, Paul would stretch Sue out at arm’s length, and as he pulled her back in, she would return like “a dove to its nest”—always with a radiant smile. That magic, once sparked, never faded.

Paul proposed to Sue many times, but each time she quickly said “no.” That changed one day when she gave him a condition: before she could say yes, they would need to travel to Minnesota so he could meet her beloved grandmother, Helene. A sharp and insightful Norwegian woman, Helene had never approved of Sue’s past relationships—and her opinion carried great weight. But when she met Paul, she genuinely liked him. That was all Sue needed to hear. As Paul would later say with a smile, “I married my best friend.”

Sue had a fearless, adventurous spirit that guided her through life and brought joy to everyone around her. When she found out Paul was an avid skier, she decided to learn the sport herself—and quickly became so good that Paul admits he sometimes had to push himself just to keep up with her on the slopes.

Their shared love for adventure extended to the open road. They bought a motorcycle, and before long, Sue wanted her own set of handlebars. Together, they rode across the country to Virginia, where they served as staff at the Boy Scouts of America's National Jamboree. When their son Jeremy joined the Scouts, Sue dove in wholeheartedly, serving as a Den Leader, Assistant Scoutmaster, and in various other leadership roles. Her commitment and enthusiasm were recognized when she was inducted into the Order of the Arrow, proudly earning the affectionate nickname “Brother Sioux.”

Sue also had a deep love of travel. With Paul by her side, she explored England, Germany, Australia, and even made a memorable side trip to Bali. When Paul retired from Boeing, Sue felt a calling to return to her hometown of Brainerd, Minnesota. Retirement didn’t slow her down—instead, it opened the door to even more adventures, including road trips and cruises across the U.S. and beyond, often on two wheels or four.

Sue was deeply devoted to her family, and nothing brought her more pride and joy than being a mother and grandmother. Her unwavering support for her son, Jeremy, was evident at every stage of his life. Whether he was performing in school music programs, advancing through the ranks in Scouting and JROTC, or forging his own path in the military, Sue was always his biggest cheerleader. She followed his journey with immense pride, never missing an opportunity to share his accomplishments with those around her. Her pride was not boastful—it was the natural expression of a mother’s deep admiration and love.

Despite the physical distance that Jeremy’s military service sometimes created, Sue made it a point to stay close in every way she could. She traveled frequently to be with him and his family, no matter where they were stationed, ensuring that her presence, support, and warmth were never far away. Her love knew no boundaries—not in geography, and certainly not in heart.

Sue also shared a special bond with her daughter-in-law, Rachel. She saw in Rachel not only a devoted wife and mother, but a kindred spirit, and she did everything in her power to support her in both roles. Whether helping during challenging times or simply offering encouragement and love, Sue stood by Rachel as family in the truest sense of the word.

One of the greatest joys of Sue’s later years was becoming “Grandma” to Ava (11), Aiden (9), and Austin James (4). She was present for the birth of all three grandchildren, offering hands-on help and emotional support in those precious early moments of their lives. As they grew, Sue delighted in spoiling them with gifts, surprises, and plenty of treats—often to the good-natured dismay of their parents. “Grandma Time” was sacred, and Sue made every visit memorable with her laughter, attention, and unconditional love.

Even when she couldn’t be physically present, she eagerly awaited updates from Jeremy about the children’s lives—school achievements, sports, little milestones, and funny stories. Her grandchildren were her sunshine, and her love for them radiated through every thoughtful gesture, every call, and every cherished moment.

Sue’s deep sense of duty and commitment to service extended far beyond her community—it began with her service to her country. From 1980 to 1985, she proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Security Police Specialist, rising to the rank of Sergeant. At a time when opportunities for women in certain military roles were still emerging, Sue stood out as a true trailblazer. She was among the first women to serve as a Military Working Dog Handler—a distinction that not only marked a milestone in military history but also became a deeply personal chapter in her life.

Working alongside her canine partners, Sue found a powerful bond with animals that would continue throughout her life. Her dedication, professionalism, and compassion earned the respect of her peers and superiors alike, while her courage and determination helped open doors for women who followed in her footsteps.

Sue often spoke with pride about her time in the service, and the discipline, resilience, and loyalty she developed during those years became foundational traits she carried into every aspect of her life—whether in her roles as a leader, a friend, a mother, or a mentor. Her legacy as a pioneering woman in uniform remains an inspiration to all who knew her.

Sue’s commitment to service didn’t end with her military career—it continued and flourished through her involvement in the American Legion. She became an active and highly respected member of the organization, channeling her leadership skills and passion for veterans' causes into meaningful action. Sue proudly served as Post Commander of Nisswa Post #627 for three years, where she worked tirelessly to support fellow veterans, foster community engagement, and strengthen the Legion’s mission.

Her leadership extended well beyond the local level. Sue became deeply involved at both the District and Department levels, where her insight, energy, and unwavering dedication made a lasting impact. Always eager to learn and lead by example, she became a proud graduate of the American Legion National College—a distinction that reflected both her commitment and her capability.

Never one to keep knowledge to herself, Sue stepped into the role of mentor and educator, serving as an instructor at the Department of Minnesota Legion College. There, she helped train and inspire the next generation of Legion leaders, leaving behind a legacy of service, empowerment, and integrity that will resonate for years to come.

Susan was preceded in death by her beloved parents, James and Rachel Mark, and by her grandparents, Alvin and Helene Johnson and Melvin and Cora Mark.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Paul Edwards; her son, Jeremy Carlile; daughter-in-law, Rachel Carlile (née Peters); and three cherished grandchildren—Ava Rose (11), Aiden Thomas (9), and Austin James (4)—all of Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Susan is also survived by her sister, Sharon Hidveghy (née Mark), and brother-in-law, Alexander Hidveghy, of Las Vegas, Nevada, as well as numerous extended family members throughout Minnesota, across the United Kingdom, and around the country.

Her loss is deeply felt by countless friends she made through her years of service with the American Legion, and by all who had the privilege of knowing her from communities far and wide. Sue touched lives across the globe with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit, and she will be profoundly missed.

Funeral Services A visitation will be held at Brenny Funeral & Cremation, 7348 Excelsior Road N, Baxter, MN 56425, on Friday, July 25th, from 5:00–7:00 PM, and again on Saturday, July 26th, from 10:00–11:00 AM. A celebration of life service will follow on Saturday, July 26th at 11:00 AM, with a luncheon immediately afterward.

Internment Susan will be laid to rest with full honors at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, 15550 MN-115, Little Falls, MN 56345, on Monday, July 28th at 12:00 PM.

In Lieu of Flowers To honor her lifelong dedication to veterans, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to one of the following organizations she passionately supported:

American Legion Post #627 25807 Main Street Nisswa, MN 56468

Eagle’s Healing Nest 310 US-71 Sauk Centre, MN 56378

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support received from friends, family, and the community during this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness and compassion have been a great comfort.