Obituary of Susan Harris Stephens

Susan Harris Stephens, originally of Tampa, Florida died after a courageous battle with cancer on Sunday, January 1st, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she lived for the last 11 years. She passed away surrounded by loved ones.

Susan was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1954 to the late Dr. Jeff Harris and Barbara Hass Harris. After an early move, Susan grew up in Tampa, where she graduated from Plant High School in 1972 and earned her BA and MBA from the University of South Florida. She and her family moved to Greenville, South Carolina in 1997, where her daughter, Annie Stephens Yetman, was lovingly raised.

Susan was a force of humor and a quick wit. She was innately brave and turned her childhood shyness into an ability to quickly befriend everyone she met. She is remembered for being a fantastic mother and a loyal friend, for her sharp mind, rigorous attention to the dictionary, and incredible sense of humor. Susan was a life-long champion of all animals, and above all, she was a proud and adoring grandmother.

Susan is preceded in death by her brother, Paul Robin Harris. She is survived by her daughter, Annie, son-in-law, Russell Yetman, and grandson, Grant Yetman of Washington, D.C.; her sister, Michele Chavez Harris, and niece and nephew, Lydie and Griffin Harris of Tampa, F.L.; her niece, Maggie Harris of Virginia; her sister, Scott Stephens Geyer, brother-in-law, Pleas Geyer, and nephews and niece, Charlie, Bert, and Martha Geyer of Charlotte, N.C., as well as many beloved family members and friends who became family. She also has three surviving brothers, Kieffer, John, and Lucas Harris of Tampa, F.L. She is deeply missed and forever loved.

Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service in Charlotte, N.C., is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a favorite organization to help animals.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.hankinsandwhittington.com.