Suzanne Elizabeth Colstad-Gillen, was born Suzanne Elizabeth Colstad on May 8, 1957, in Weymouth, Massachusetts, and passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by her family, her husband and her two daughters by her side.

Her passing followed a sudden and devastating diagnosis of a rare and aggressive cancer. Despite the challenges she faced during her final weeks, she remained surrounded by the love, comfort, and support of her family.

Sue enjoyed a nearly 33-year career - first as a telephone operator with Bell Atlantic and eventually retired as a supervisor with Verizon. During the early years of her career, it provided the stability and support that allowed her to raise her two daughters as a single parent with strength and determination.

Sue enjoyed all forms of art. Always thinking outside the box, whether by paint, clay, beads, jewelry, homemade cards. She could turn a paperclip or even a rock into something beautiful. She was eager to share her creations with family and friends. You need a necklace for an event? She would whip one up! Having a family gathering, she would surprise all the ladies with earrings or pins along with a personalized note in the most beautiful handwriting. She also loved nature photography - photos of bumblebees, birds and sunflowers especially made her smile.

In March of 1992, Sue was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She was associated with the South Manchester, NH Congregation. She came to appreciate the truth from God’s word and the answers it provided. She found great comfort from the Bible’s promises for the future such as Revelation 21:3,4 “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”

In 1996, Sue married William Gillen, and together they shared 30 years of travel, companionship, and a love of muscle cars. Sue also had a soft spot for animals, especially the cats she rescued and their two beloved Sun Conures, Gazoo and Giggles.

One of the most meaningful chapters of her life was caring for her mother Patricia Colstad, during her long battle with Alzheimer’s. Sue’s devotion, compassion, and strength were evident in the years she and Bill welcomed her mother into their home.

She adored her daughters, Christine and Patricia (and their husbands), and valued every opportunity to be part of their lives. Her grandchildren Maelyn and Kelvin Hogan, who referred to Sue as “Honey”, held a special place in her heart. Sue loved her brothers and always stayed closely connected throughout her life. Laughing, joking and sharing.

Sue was predeceased by her mother, Patricia Lee Colstad, and her father, Henry Willard Colstad.

She is survived by her husband, William Gillen of Manchester, New Hampshire; her daughter Christine Cordeau and her husband Rob of Milford, New Hampshire; her daughter Patricia Hogan and her husband Greg of Andover, Massachusetts; her cherished grandchildren, Maelyn and Kelvin Hogan; her brother Steven Colstad and his wife Erin of Methuen, Massachusetts; her brother Neil Colstad and his wife Elisa of Hampton Falls, New Hampshire; and her brother Brian Colstad and his wife Evette of Little Bay, Sydney, Australia.

The family extends a big thanks to the nursing staff at Elliot Hospital for their care, kindness, and support. And a heartfelt thank-you to the Community Hospice House in Merrimack - you ladies are amazing! Sue looked utterly beautiful and at peace during her final days.

We will miss you Sue, Mom, Sister, Honey.

Assisting with arrangements is Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Manchester. To view Sue's online tribute, send condolences to her family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net