Susan Williams
Nov. 21, 1948-Feb. 12, 2026
Pleasanton, California
Susan Kohler Williams — beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, wife, musician, educator, and friend — died peacefully on February 12, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by family and friends. Known to many as Susan, Suzie, or simply Sue, she lived a life defined by curiosity, music, service, and deep devotion to the people she loved.
Susan is survived by her husband of 55 years, Peter Williams; her daughters Carolyn Williams and Rebecca Crow; her son-in-law Abram Crow; and her cherished grandchildren James Williams, Myles Crow, and Melanie Crow. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl William Elmer Kohler and Susan Clark, and by her brothers Bill Kohler and David Kohler.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1948, Susan grew up surrounded by music and the outdoors. Her childhood was filled with camping trips, canoeing adventures, singing, and playing instruments—joys that would remain constants throughout her life. Even as a young girl, she brought enthusiasm and creativity to everything she did, qualities that became hallmarks of her character.
Susan attended Peabody High School, where her academic excellence and discipline earned her the honor of valedictorian in 1966. She went on to study mathematics at Carnegie Mellon University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Math in 1970. It was there that she met Peter Williams, her future husband and lifelong partner. They married in 1970 and began their shared journey together, rooted in mutual respect, humor, and love.
The early years of their marriage were spent in Pepperell, Massachusetts, where Susan became deeply involved in the community. A devoted volunteer, she actively supported the Friends of the Lawrence Library and the Nashua River Watershed Association, reflecting her love of learning and the natural world. She was also the founder and director of the Community Church of Pepperell Handbell Choir.
Family life was central to Susan’s identity. She made time for camping trips, canoe outings, and countless shared adventures, always finding ways to turn ordinary moments into memorable experiences. She loved teaching songs, passing along camp traditions, and encouraging curiosity. Whether around a campfire or at a family gathering, Susan’s presence brought warmth, laughter, and music.
Committed to education and lifelong learning, Susan earned her Master of Education from the University of Lowell. In 1989, life took her west to California, where the family settled in Pleasanton. Susan taught math at Canyon Middle School in Castro Valley, where she became known for her creativity, dedication, and genuine care for her students. She enjoyed coaching Math Counts and was always exploring innovative ways to make math engaging and accessible. Teaching was never just a job for Susan—it was a calling, and she brought her whole self into the classroom every day.
Music remained a defining thread throughout her life. Susan was an organ player, pianist, guitarist, and later an enthusiastic ukulele player. Susan was a part of the Pleasanton Ukulele Band for many years, singing and playing all around the community but especially senior living communities and rehabilitation centers. Susan loved bringing smiles to others through music. Susan also organized and performed handbell music, especially around Christmas time, finding ways to include everyone in the music of the season.
Susan was a seasoned camper, an avid canoe lover, and someone who found peace and inspiration outdoors. She also loved reading and baking, pleasures she especially enjoyed sharing with her grandchildren. Some of her happiest moments were spent playing music with them, reading together, or simply being present—listening, encouraging, and cheering them on.
Above all, Susan was a fierce supporter of her family. She showed up fully for every occasion, big or small, offering steady love, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering encouragement. Her generosity of spirit extended beyond her family to friends, neighbors, students, and fellow musicians. She had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, and her kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
Susan Kohler Williams lived a life rich with purpose, creativity, and connection. Her legacy lives on in the music she shared, the students she taught, the community she served, and the family she loved so deeply. She will be remembered for her intelligence, her joy, her adventurous spirit, and the way she brought her whole heart to the world.
She will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered. A Celebration of Life is scheduled to take place in Pleasanton in late July 2026. For further information, please contact watergirl64@gmail.com. For those interested a donation can be made in Susan’s name to Math Counts at https://cspeef.org/donate/.
Tags: teacher/educator