Obituary of Susan Collins Trotter

Susan Collins Trotter passed away peacefully at Sharon Towers in Charlotte on February 1, 2024, at the age of 87. She was born January 2,1937, and was the daughter of the late Michael McHale Collins, Sr. (Hale) and Eleanor McCoy Collins (Burr). Susan was predeceased by her husband, George Reid Trotter, jr. with whom she shared 42 years of marriage. She is survived by her sons, George Reid Trotter, III and Michael McHale Trotter (Hale), both of Charlotte.

Susan was born and raised in the Virginia mountain town of Covington. Her childhood surroundings of scenic beauty inspired her long career as a contemporary impressionist artist. Her passion for art led her to study at Richmond Professional Institute in Richmond, Virginia before she moved to Charlotte. Susan had a fabulous fashion sense, was always impeccably dressed and worked as a fashion illustrator for Belk in Charlotte. She retired from her career in commercial art upon marrying George and having children, but continued to pursue the study of art. Her studies allowed her the opportunity to enjoy travelling throughout the United States and Europe.

Susan often reminisced about her childhood spent in Virginia surrounded by many aunts, uncles and cousins. As an adult, she returned to Virgina, where she spent her summers and founded Thistledown Farm Artist Workshops. There, she hosted many renowned instructors and art students for one-week workshops. In addition to her talent as a multi-disciplinary artist, she was a gifted cook and gardener extraordinaire. She entertained with grace and flair, setting gorgeous tables, and planning elaborate menus. Susan had a mischievous sense of humor and a great laugh. She loved spending quality time telling funny stories with her beloved family and friends. She turned acquaintances into friends at every turn and cherished even those relationships she made at a very young age. Her friends were very important and meaningful to her, many of whom would remain by her side lovingly until the end which was of great comfort to her and her family.

Susan’s home was a revolving door to her family and friends. She often invited her grandchildren and her young nieces to her home for art and sewing lessons. Her guest room in Charlotte was home to many family members when they first moved to Charlotte. She will be fondly remembered for her artistic talent, incredible generosity and her fun-loving nature. She will be forever missed and her son, Hale, will continue to honor her legacy as an accomplished artist.

In addition to her sons, Susan is survived by her grandchildren, McHale and Andie Trotter and a brother, Michael McHale Collins and his wife Ellen of Hot Springs, Virginia and countless other special relatives.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the fabulous nurses at Sharon Towers and Hospice for all the kindness and compassion they showed Susan during her illness.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to VIA Health Partners- Hospice care https://www.viagiving.org/donating.

A memorial service will be held at 3pm Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Chapel of Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203.

Online condolences may be www.HankinsandWhittington.com.