Susan Fern Mitchell

Born in Madison County, Indiana, Susan was the third of six children of Arthur L. Baker and Crystal L. Baker (Holloway). Raised in the close-knit town of Fairmount, IN, her early years were filled with love, laughter, and community. As a teenager, she began babysitting and worked at the Corner Drug Store during high school, showing a natural gift for caring for others.

A proud graduate of Fairmount High School’s Class of 1960, Susan married Charles R. Davis, Jr. and moved to Marion, IN, where they raised three children: Susan Michelle “Shelly” Davis, Charles “Scott” Davis, and Stephen Michael Davis. She was deeply involved in her children’s activities—serving as a room mother, Cub Scout leader, and team mom for T-ball and Little League. She also supported Girl Scouts, taught Sunday School at First Friends Church, and was active in 4-H alongside her children for many years. Her home was always open, filled with the laughter of her own kids and the many others she lovingly cared for after school and during summers.

As her children grew, Susan found deep fulfillment working in the Marion Public School System, where she nurtured preschoolers, kindergarteners, and children with special needs. Her gentle spirit and unwavering patience left a lasting impact on countless young lives.

In 1983, Susan moved to Fairfax, Virginia, and embarked on a new chapter in the security field. Her career included roles with E-Systems and Sierra Nevada Corporation, where she worked closely with the U.S. Air Force, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and the National Security Agency (NSA). Her professionalism, integrity, and attention to detail earned her the respect of colleagues across the industry. Susan served four years on the National Industrial Security Program Policy Advisory Committee (an Executive Order-appointed committee). She formerly served on the National Board of Directors of the National Classification Management Society, and the National Defense Industrial Association/Women in Defense. She concluded her career as a successful security consultant, retiring in 2013.

In 1997, Susan met and married the love of her life, Lawrence “Larry” Mitchell. With Larry, she gained a fourth child, Mark Mitchell. The following years brought new grandchildren, career milestones, a move to Tysons Corner, Virginia, and the joy of building a new life together.

In 2004, Susan and Larry built their dream home on Lake Anna in Mineral, Virginia. Susan often joked that she built it to “bribe the grandchildren to come visit”—and it worked! Many Fourth of July celebrations and holidays were filled with family, fun, and laughter. Boating, fishing, and relaxing on the dock became cherished family traditions. Susan and Larry loved entertaining friends, neighbors, and family, creating treasured memories that will live on for generations.

In 2014, Susan and Larry embraced their next adventure as snowbirds, settling near Sarasota, Florida, close to two of their sons. They traveled the world together—exploring China, France, Italy, Spain, the Caribbean, and enjoying family vacations in Cancun. Through it all, Susan’s greatest joy was spending time with loved ones.

Susan was a devoted member of Louisa Presbyterian Church in Virginia and later attended Venice Presbyterian Church in Florida, where Susan is a member of the Board of Trustees. Her faith was a quiet yet steady strength that guided her life. She found joy in gardening, walking, boating, hosting gatherings, and volunteering in her church and community. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love touched everyone she met.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents and two siblings. She is survived by her beloved husband, Larry Mitchell; her children, Shelly Davis, Scott Davis (Rena), Mark Mitchell (Lori), and Steve Davis (Judy); and by three sisters, Carol Proctor (John), Cathy Shelton, and Ruth Rhoads, and her many beloved nieces and nephews, including Mike Mitchell (Becky) and Kenette Coffman (Tammy). She also leaves behind eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren—each one the light of her life!

Susan’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and devotion. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Tidewell Hospice in the name of Susan Mitchell. www.tidewellfoundation.org/donate

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Venice Presbyterian Church, followed by a toast in her honor at Fin & Tonic. At Susan’s request, please do not wear black; come in bright, joyful colors to celebrate her beautiful life.