Susan Leslie Campbell

1956 - 2011

Susan Leslie Campbell obituary, 1956-2011, Halifax, NS

BORN

1956

DIED

2011

FUNERAL HOME

Cruikshank's Halifax Funeral Home

2032 Robie Street

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Susan Campbell Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 14, 2011.

Campbell, Susan Leslie (Sue) – 54, of Halifax passed away on Saturday, February 12 at the Victoria General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Sue was a teacher, a philosopher, and a genuinely kind person. As a philosopher and teacher, her generosity and great courage illuminated the world for so many; as a loved one and friend, she showed us all grace through the trying times and humility through the good. Her sense of humour-sometimes dark, sometimes gentle-could always be counted on to make the emotion of self-pity impossible. Sue was a member of Dalhousie's Philosophy Department since 1992. She truly enjoyed students and was moved by their efforts to become thoughtful adults. Sue was a valued colleague and devoted mentor in both Philosophy and the Gender and Women's Studies Program. She was a passionate gardener, a lover of bad movies, coffee shops and beer, a rescuer of wild flowers, a poet, and a proud cabin owner.

Sue was born in Edmonton and completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees in philosophy at the University of Alberta. She received her doctorate from the University of Toronto. Sue is predeceased by her parents Pat and Bill Campbell, both of Edmonton. She is survived by her loving partner, Jan Sutherland, and her beloved sisters Katy Campbell (Rick Roder) and Lori Campbell (Barry Snell), by her precious nieces Jesse Campbell and Courtney Wells (Parker), and great-nephew Xander. Having come from a sociable family, Sue's friendships meant a great deal to her and, in particular, Rocky Jacobsen, David Checkland, Susan Sherwin, Shirley Tillotson, Duncan MacIntosh and Ami Harbin were stalwart to the end. Mention must also be made of Stanley and Sugar, the pets who brought Sue much comfort and joy over the years.

The family wishes to sincerely thank the nurses and doctors of 5A for caring for us all with such compassion and gentleness.

Cremation has already taken place. Family and friends will gather to celebrate our good fortune at having known Sue at Charlie's Club, 5580 Cunard Street, Halifax from 6-8 pm on Thursday February 17th. A memorial for family and friends in Alberta will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sue Campbell Scholarship Fund c/o Ben McIsaac, Development Office, Dalhousie University, MacDonald Building, 6300 Coburg Ave., Halifax, NS B3H 3J5. Online condolences may be made through www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com.

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36 Entries

February 27, 2011

Susan Walsh

I am grateful for Sue’s generosity in sharing her insights about writing with me—and also her willingness to talk about gardening. As a scholar and as a truly decent person, she was—and will continue to be—inspirational. I send strength and love to her family and close friends.

February 24, 2011

Andrea Moar

Thank-you Sue for providing me (your second cousin) such a wonderful gift. I was a young girl when you took a special interest in me one impressionable, difficult summer at "The Lake". You taught me a great lesson in loving myself and learning to let go as we skinny dipped at sunset. I have never forgotten and am grateful to this day. I loved your parents, I love your sisters and will love and miss you. All my best wishes Jan...you must be an amazing spirit.

February 22, 2011

Selina Stewart

Dearest Sue,

On my desk is a book printed in 1879 which you gave me, with characteristic generosity, in the early 90s. I think of you whenever I take it down to show my students and explain its story. Your laugh, your brilliant smile - how we will miss you. t?? ?e ß?????µa? ??at?? te ß?µa / ??µ????µa ??µp??? ?d?? p??s?p?.

?? ?? ?e?? f????s?? ?p????s?e? ??a

February 22, 2011

Deirdre Crandall

This dewdrop world Is but a dewdrop world. And yet, and yet—— Issa, Eighteenth-century Japanese poet

Dear Lori and Katy

I wanted to send a message of condolence especially for you (having written one for Jan separately) because I have never been able to think of Sue apart from both of you; whenever I think of Sue, I always immediately think of the two of you.

Seems too obvious to bear mentioning, but for as long as there has been Sue Campbell there been this sweet rich, resonant triadic configuration: Sue-Lori-Katy, Lori-Katy-Sue, Katy-Lori-Sue.

A textured, resonant major chord.

Sue knew how much I admired your relationship, your conversations, your arpeggios of laughter, your candor, your shared worlds of interest and endeavor; your shared appreciation of everything significant.

(Curiously, as Sue and I commented on at various times, Sue was often referred to by many of us, even in the most casual conversation, as “Sue Campbell,” not simply as “Sue” – a naming that acknowledged Sue as a woman in context –daughter of Bill and Pat; endearingly, enduringly as one of the Campbell girls; as a sister to you both; The (real) power of three.

I cannot even begin to imagine how painful for you.

Sending my deepest condolences to you, Lori, and Katy, and also to Barry and Jesse, to Courtney, Rick, and to wee Xander; to your entire extended family and to Sue’s incomparably special friends, Rocky, Sue, David, Shirley, Duncan and Ami as well as to the many others who love Sue and grieve her passing....

February 21, 2011

Michael Da Silva

The sad news of Sue's death marks an immense loss for anyone who knew Sue, as well as to the world of philosophy. She introduced me to contemporary feminist thought when I was undergraduate at Dalhousie, then served as a mentor as I navigated the world of philosophy. She served as my reference for the Philosophy in an Inclusive Key Summer Institute and always supported my work on race and the use of my own life in my studies on the topic. Her work on residential schools inspired some of my own work on Aboriginal issues, but her influence on my development is not merely intellectual. She taught me much about how teaching and kindest can and should go hand-in-hand. She will be greatly missed.

February 21, 2011

Lisa Kretz

Sue deeply influenced my life and philosophy, in more ways than I can articulate. She is loved by so many, and rightly so. It would be hard not to love her. Sue was brilliant and humble, funny and honest, and she had a perceptive and generous heart of gold. Sue was on my doctoral committee, I was a teaching assistant and researcher for her, and I did course work with her (I even audited one of Sue's classes - I was so impressed with her I wanted to glean all I could). Sue could cut to the quick of things in an uncanny way...one question in the margin of a paper could result in an entire overhaul of one's metaphysics, and necessarily so. The narratives she told with her artfully constructed reading lists for courses were life changing. She oversaw my feminist conversion and rewrote my understanding of emotions both philosophically and within personal relationships. Plus she could take my messy gestures toward a new means of conceptualizing something and succinctly phrase precisely what I was trying to say. She sought to understand you as a person to help respond to your starting and sticking points as a philosopher. As a mentor, friend, and confidant she will be deeply missed, often.

February 19, 2011

Stacy Kelly

I am so saddened to learn this news. I had the privilege to take two philosophy seminars with Sue during her time at Queen's in the early 1990s. I ended up cat-sitting for Sue and Jan one weekend and I shall always recall her crazy kitty named Stan. Sue was an excellent teacher and facilitator. He seminars were always thought-provoking and she was always available for reflection and input. My deepest condolences to Jan and to Sue's family and friends.

Stacy Kelly, Kingston, Ontario

February 19, 2011

Jennifer Simpson

Sue was my undergrad thesis advisor in 2007. I respected her tremendously and loved her very much. I am deeply saddened to learn of her passing, and saddened that the world will no longer benefit from her lightness, her dedication, her startling intellect, her humour. She pushed me to think more deeply, to strengthen my feminist commitments, and taught me so much for which I am and will be forever grateful. My deepest condolences to Sue's family. Much love.

February 18, 2011

Lan Chan-Marples

Dear Katy: I was saddened to read about the passing of your sister, Sue. Even though I don't know Sue, I can see that she had had a remarkable life as a scholar and philosopher and deeply loved and respected by all who knew her.

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. ~Author Unknown

February 18, 2011

Kristin Rodier

Sue Campbell was the first woman philosopher I saw give a public lecture. She forever expanded my notion of what it means to do philosophy. Her precision of thought and calm delivery was inspirational to me. I have always referred to that talk, and my encounters with her when I consider the kind of philosopher I would like to be. My deepest sympathies to her family and friends.

February 17, 2011

Cressida Heyes

The world of feminist philosophy has lost one of its most important and inspirational figures. Sue's brilliant work and generous presence were key in developing the thinking and careers of many more junior philosophers, and she will be deeply missed. She was talented, wry, committed, warm-hearted, and witty. I am so sad and sorry she's gone so soon. Sending love and strength to Lori, Katy, Jan, and all those close to Sue.

February 17, 2011

Carl Matheson

Sue's departure is a great loss for those near and far. I mourn her very much and send my condolences to Jan and the many other who hold her dear.

Carl Matheson

February 17, 2011

Deirdre Crandall

Ah, Sue, you have been a beloved cherished friend for almost 3 decades. I love you with a wild and tender passion and I am so grateful that you created space for me to share in your life and to be part of your life with Jan, for whom my heart breaks and overflows. Sending love and support at a distance, borrowing from Emily...

The Goal

EACH life converges to some centre
Expressed or still;
Exists in every human nature
A goal,

Admitted scarcely to itself, it may be,
Too fair
For credibility’s temerity
To Dare.

Adored with caution, as a brittle heaven
To reach
Were hopeless as the rainbow’s raiment
To touch,

Yet persevered toward, surer for the distance;
How high
Unto the saint’s slow diligence
The sky!

Ungained, it may be, by a life’s low venture,
But then,
Eternity enables the endeavouring
Again.

Emily Dickenson

February 17, 2011

christianne smith

Jan,and Lori,and Katy, I was so saddened to hear Sue had died. She was such a bright light in the world. I know you will all miss her terribly.

I am in Palm Springs now --will be home at the beginning of April, hopefully in time for the remembrance.

Do take care all of you...

Love, Christi

February 16, 2011

Melinda Hogan

Jan, thinking of you with fondness. It is sad and strange to hear of Sue's passing. I always loved her humor and willingness to engage philosophically. She gave so much.

February 16, 2011

Mason and Kristine Cash

Our deepest condolences to Jan, and to all of Sue's friends, family and colleagues. She was an insightful philosopher and a good friend to Kristine and I when I taught at Dalhousie. I especially appreciated her sense of humor, as well as her generosity and kindness to us both and her sociability (parties at Sue and Jan's house were legendary).

Thinking about Sue now, the strongest memories I have are of her laughing. Wow, could she laugh! And she did so a lot.

February 16, 2011

Russ Weninger

Jan, I was deeply saddened to hear about Sue. I valued her mentorship and enjoyed her company. If you find yourself in Calgary, let me buy you a beer.

February 16, 2011

Naomi Scheman

I met Sue when I was the outside examiner for her PhD dissertation, in which she was strongly critical of some work of mine. She was absolutely right. She was also delightful, and the "defense" was a pleasure. I left with new and better ideas about feelings and emotions, and with a friend. Although we didn't see each other often, it was always a delight when we did, and I've continued to learn from her. I have cited her often in the past and I'm sure I will cite her in the future. It is a major intellectual loss that there will be no more of her wonderful work, and a heartbreaking loss, especially for those closest to her, that she is no longer in the world.

February 16, 2011

Roberta Barker

Sue was a tremendously kind, warm, witty, and understanding mentor to me, as to so many other young scholars, when I arrived at Dalhousie. I will always remember the compassion and thoughtfulness with which she responded to my panicked questions about teaching. I learned a huge amount from every conversation I had with her--and laughed a lot, too. She will be dearly missed not only at Dalhousie but also in the arts community of Halifax, of which she was such a wonderful supporter, and in so many other communities. My very sincere condolences to Jan and to all Sue's family and friends at this hard time.

February 16, 2011

Nancy Salay

Morgan and I were so sad to hear about Sue's passing -- a truly sane and positive spirit has left this world. My heartfelt condolences to you Jan.

February 16, 2011

Catriona Mackenzie

I am so sad and sorry to hear of Sue's passing. She was such a generous and warm person and a really interesting philosopher. My best wishes to Jan and to Sue's family.

February 16, 2011

Patty Moar

Sue was my brilliant, brave and fun-loving cousin. I will always remember the summers at the lake when we grew up - lots of singing, swimming and laughing. 'Suey'was the only possibly more afraid of thunderstorms than myself! Luckily we were able to reconnect in Halifax after many years so that I could meet her amazing partner Jan. Much love to Jan, sisters Katy and Lori and the rest of Sue's large fan club.

February 16, 2011

Mel and Lindy Maschmeyer

Jan, we're sorry for your loss in Sue's death, and glad that she had you as a partner in this life. I'm glad Lori and Katy have been able to be there, and hope that you received comfort in their closeness. Sue was a good friend, a dedicated scholar, and a genuine person. We'll miss her.

February 16, 2011

Moira Howes

I am so sorry for your loss, Jan. My condolences to you and Sue's family and friends.

February 16, 2011

Jordy Koffman

I was a student of Sue's who was indeed inspired and encouraged by her, and I know I speak for many more of her students in saying that she has been and will continue to be appreciated, and that she will be mourned by many. My condolences to everyone who was fortunate enough to be close with her.

February 16, 2011

I knew Sue when we were both students of philosophy at the U of A. She was a friendly free spirit in those days, a wonderful mind with a big heart. I'm so sad and surprised to learn of her passing. --Dianne Chisholm

February 16, 2011

Christine Overall

The world has lost an insightful philosopher, a generous teacher, and a sweet and kind colleague. My sincere sympathies to all of Sue's family and especially to Jan who has been so strong throughout this hard time.

February 16, 2011

Leola Lefebvre

I am so sad to hear of Sue's passing. I worked with Sue during her time as the Coordinator for Gender and Women's Studies. She was a wonderful person to work for, very understanding, kind and easy to talk to. I enjoyed our chats about our families, pets and her love of gardening. She was a great listener and I always appreciated her advice and humour. She will be missed by so many. My deepest condolences to her family and partner Jan at this very difficult time.

February 16, 2011

Patricia DeMeo

I always looked forward to meetings with Sue. She epitomized the curiosity and the humility of true scholars. I also took delight in her quirky sense of humour and in the evidence of her kindness. She will be missed and remembered.

February 15, 2011

Jana Crawford

You will be missed, Sue. Thanks for all your advice and kindness.

February 15, 2011

Jeanie Greenidge

Jan, Katy and Lori et al. - I would do anything to be there with you to get the chance to salute the wonderful mind and joyous (that laugh was infectious), thoughtful presence that was Sue Campbell. I loved being around her and I will miss her.

February 15, 2011

Jan McKenzie

Jan - I didn't know Sue but, after reading her obituary and comments from others on this site, I wished that I did. She sounds like someone who made the most of the time she had here. I am so sorry for your loss.

February 15, 2011

Jacqueline Warwick

Sue's kindness and generosity to me are things I will always cherish, although I could never properly repay them. Sue's gorgeous laugh made me feel like the wittiest woman in the world! Her own wry sense of humour and ability to joke at her own expense were admirable, and she modelled the kind of dignity-without-pompousness that I strive for. I already think fondly of her every spring, when the plants she gave start to bloom in my garden, and I'm so thankful to have this precious evidence of her role in my life at Dalhousie and in Halifax. My warmest condolences to Jan, and to all who have lost such a dear one.

February 15, 2011

Sarah Clift

Sue Campbell belonged to a rare and wonderful breed: she was down-to-earth and approachable, and at the same time, sophisticated and exacting. Funny and serious, light and full of gravitas, Sue took herself seriously and...not at all. She was a joy to examine students in defences with and a pleasure to teach with, to listen to and be heard by. Sue will be missed by all those, like myself, who were lucky enough to be touched by her in professional acquaintance. My sincerest condolences go to her family and especially to her partner, Jan. I am deeply sorry for your loss.

February 15, 2011

Barbara Keddy

Sue was a mentor to many, a trusted colleague and a joy to spend time with, always with that wonderful smile. She will be sadly missed. I have many warm memories of the times we spent together in Women's Studies. Sincere condolences to all who loved and cherished her.

February 15, 2011

Emma Whelan

Sue Campbell was one of the kindest, funniest people I've met at Dalhousie. When I was a new faculty member, she welcomed me into the community, got me involved in the Gender & Women's Studies program, invited me out to drinks at Gus's and Charlie's and to a party or two at her home. This was a lonely time in my life. I knew no one when I arrived in Halifax. Sue made that time a bit easier. I fondly remember our chats about academic life in the hallway our offices shared; she had a gift for gently showing me how to laugh at angry-making experiences. I also had the good fortune to serve on a graduate student's committee with her and learned from her ability to be incredibly incisive and gentle at the same time. We were not close friends, but I was fortunate to know her a little and I'm sure she touched many, many other lives as she did mine, well beyond the circle of her nearest and dearest. I will never forget her laugh. I send my deepest sympathies to her family and her partner Jan.

Showing 1 - 36 of 36 results

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