Suzanne Bryson MacArthur “Susie”
Age 90 of Westwood, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2022. Formerly of Waban, Wellesley, Orleans, Mattapoisett and Vero Beach.
Born January 27, 1932 in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of Charles M. Wilson “Woody” and Frances M. Wilson “Fran.” The family moved to Newton, MA, where Susie grew up with her younger sister, Sally.
She met her first husband, Charles L. Bryson, when they were management trainees at the Jordan Marsh Company. They raised three young children together. And they had 20 wonderful years of marriage, but sadly, his life ended far too soon, while in his prime.
Always known for her work ethic, Susie jumped right back into the work force. Surely a godsend, she was hired to be Assistant Dean of Students at Noble and Greenough School, where she later became Co-Director of Admissions. She loved Nobles, and had 10 meaningful years there bonding with faculty, students and parents, creating lasting friendships before retiring.
During that time, she met the second Love of her life, Douglas MacArthur. They married and had 10 wonderful years together. They spent their time in Orleans and the Caribbean, and enjoying family time with their children and grandchildren.
When Doug passed away, Susie devoted her time and energy to many different activities. She started painting again, taking classes with a master to improve her technique, something she never did while her own children were growing up. She started to play golf – and played a lot and became pretty proficient at it! She volunteered at Newton-Wellesley and Vero Beach Hospitals, which gave her meaning, purpose and perspective in her life.
Whatever Susie did, she was “all-in.” She was never cheated in accomplishing what she set out to do in a 24-hour day. She lived a rich, full life, which we can all admire. When Susie needed to be tough, however, she was no shrinking violet. Equally admirable, she was very compassionate and caring when someone needed to be lifted up. To our dear Susie, you did it right; you lived life to its fullest, and impacted many others along the way, until your very last breath.
Susie is survived by her three children: Chuck Bryson of Cambridge, Sarah Bryson of Osterville and Jeanie Bryson of South Dennis. Three grandchildren: Josh Gainey of Framingham, Suzanne Schwenk of Litchfield Park, Arizona and Woody Bryson of Cambridge. Three great-grandchildren. And Susie’s sister, Sally McOsker of Orleans.
The family would like to thank Bridges By Epoch in Westwood for their devotion to and care for Susie during the last years of her life. In particular, we wish to express deeply our gratitude to “Mo-Mo,” “Tameka” and “Muumy” for their loving care, companionship and support for Susie.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Susie’s honor to the Bryson and Wilson Family Scholarship Fund at Noble and Greenough School and sent to Noble and Greenough School, 10 Campus Dr. Dedham, MA 02026.
A private family burial will take place in July.