Suzanne Jane Wallace

Obituary

Suzanne Jane "Sue" Wallace was a force of nature, legendary educator, and professional "keeper-of-everyone-in-line”. She passed away peacefully in the early morning of Monday, July 6, 2026, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. She was 82.
Born on September 18, 1943, to John and Dorothy Toot of Amsterdam, New York, she attended Springfield College, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education in 1965, where she was also a standout member of the field hockey and lacrosse teams. She doubled down on her passion to help those most in need, earning a Master's Degree in Special Physical Education from the University of Connecticut in1976.

Sue channeled her unstoppable drive into a teaching legacy in Framingham, Massachusetts, that spanned over 40 years until her retirement in 2001. Sue was famously, lovably stubborn, backed up by her signature quick wit and humor, but was appreciated for her incredible kindness to others regardless of who they were (except for Yankees fans). As a teacher, she didn’t just teach kids how to run, she taught them how to stand tall.

Sue was also actively involved with the Framingham Teachers' Union, first acting as a building representative and rising to President. Retirement didn’t slow her down; it just gave her a new focus. At the Federated Church of Ashland,  Sue served as a Deacon, a Council Member, and the undisputed boss of the Church Thrift Shop, which she managed with absolute joy and dedication.

Sue’s favorite and most cherished team was her family. She is survived by her husband, William Soutter Wallace, her partner-in-crime for 52 wonderful years; her sons & daughters-in-law: Marc Richard Wallace and his wife Susan of Arlington, VA; and William Peter Wallace and his wife Emily of Cary, NC; and her grandsons: Patrick, Luke, Cole, Reid, and Jack.

Sue will be laid to rest in Wildwood Cemetery in Ashland, MA.

To honor a woman who lived life at full volume, a Celebration of Life will be held at The Warren Conference Center, Chestnut Street, Ashland, MA, on Sunday, August 9,2026, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

In true Sue fashion, laughing, sharing great stories, and helping us celebrate a life wonderfully lived are strictly required. All who knew and loved her are warmly invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please go with your family and friends to see a Red Sox game. Or Foxwoods casino. Sue would get a kick out of that. If you feel compelled to honor her, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association, Walk For Hunger, or Jump Rope for Heart.

Gallery

Memory wall

August 8, 2026

Sue and my mum, Peggy Chamberlain, were dear friends. They met teaching at the old Memorial School in Framingham. Our mum and family spent time with Sue when we were children. I loved her energy and spunk! As an adult, my sisters and I were lucky enough to go to the Women's March in Washington together after my mum's passing. Sue and I also went to the March For Our Lives march in DC. She was an inspiration and a great friend to my mum and all of us kids. We will miss you Sue. Love DeeDee

Deborah Chamberlain

August 8, 2026

We so enjoyed Sue's friendship and great sense of humor. She & Bill certainly reared two wonderful young men and were very proud of their 5 grandsons. She played an active part in their lives, especially supporting their athletics.

Barbara Lehr & Mahrty Lehr

August 7, 2026

Sue
Your humor, leadership and guidance was a powerful force. Thank you for everyone you inspired.

Amy Graff

August 2, 2026

I cherish the memories of our many 20 mile Walks for Hunger, Thrift Shop days and Theta Phi Delta meetings. You were always so much fun & so funny. With a big heart for kids and the less fortunate. ☮️

Vickie Mancini

July 29, 2026

Sue volunteered at The Family Promise Shelter with me when it was at Common and School Sts. Natick. She was very pleasant and took care of people.

John E Merna

July 19, 2026

Sue, for all that you have done throughout the years, I say Thank you from the bottom of my heart. As for memories, I have many and I will save them until we celebrate your life on August 9th. Perhaps by then I will have narrowed it down to just a couple. Until then I will keep you in my heart and in my memories. God bless you Sue!

Pam Dunham

July 19, 2026

Sue,
I miss you and your sense of humor!
Melanie

Melanie Conner