Suzanne M. Burrows, 71

Suzanne "Sue" Mae (née Buckley) Burrows, 71, of Meredith, passed away on July 19, 2026, surrounded by her family at Concord Hospital-Laconia after a sudden illness and a long battle with primary progressive multiple sclerosis. An eternal optimist, Sue was a beacon of kindness and strength, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Born on June 17, 1955, in Spokane, Washington, while her father served in the Air Force, she was the daughter of Robert and Jeannette (née Gaudet) Buckley. Raised in Meredith, she graduated in 1973, from Inter-Lakes High School, where she proudly contributed to a state championship field hockey team. After high school, she embarked on a 20-year career with New England Telephone Company, retiring after her multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

Sue’s world revolved around the family she created with her husband, Jere Burrows, whom she spent 53 years with. She was a devoted mother to Jessica, Alicia and Nat, serving as their biggest champion and embracing every accomplishment, great and small, with unwavering pride. Nothing brought her greater joy than her grandchildren; she adored them and cherished the moments spent creating lasting memories. Sue taught the importance of savoring life’s simple pleasures — whether it was through the holiday tradition of baking cookies, trips to the beach, brightening someone’s day with fresh-picked flowers, or sharing homemade rhubarb pie and warm bread. Sue found immense joy and peace in nature, whether it was watching plants grow, enjoying the birds visiting her bird feeder, or the gentle melodies of wind chimes.

Sue had an enduring passion for music and instilled that love in her children. Attending Summer Jam at Watkins Glen, in 1973, was a highlight. She left this world with Don McLean's "American Pie" and The Beatles' "Here Comes the Sun" playing, epitomizing her vibrant spirit. Sue also treasured decades-long friendships, enjoying travels to California, to visit chosen family, Monica and Rosie, where laughter, good food, and unforgettable memories were abundant. She kept in touch with and attended reunions with both high school friends and former phone company coworkers. A lover of animals, she had many special cats and dogs over the years, with her sweet dog, Maki, bringing her great comfort in her final months.

Sue will be lovingly remembered for her warmth, thoughtfulness towards others, and incredible bravery in facing the challenges of living with MS.

Predeceased by her father, sister Kathy Buckley, and brother-in-law Buster Burrows, Sue is survived by her husband Jere; daughters Jessica Heald (Darrin) and Col. Alicia Burrows (Allie); son Nathaniel Burrows; grandchildren Nathaniel, Charlotte, Gabriel, Samuel, Abigail, Eloise, Theia, Penn and Sophie; mother Jeannette Buckley; brother David Buckley (Kelly); brother-in-law Geoff Burrows; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Sue’s family expresses deep gratitude to the Lakes Region Visiting Nurse Association and the many caregivers, particularly Sara Edwards, Sue's dedicated caregiver for the past five years, who helped her to remain at home.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at the Sandwich Fairgrounds Craft Barn from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 30. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sue’s memory to the Lakes Region VNA, 186 Waukewan St. #6023, Meredith, NH 03253, or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society New England Chapter, 465 Waverly Oaks Road, Suite 202, Waltham, MA 02452.

The Mayhew Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or offer a condolence, visit mayhewfuneralhomes.com.