Susan Gudiness Campbell

Susan "Sue" Gudiness Campbell, 75, Public Servant and Creative Spirit, Dies

Susan "Sue" Gudiness Campbell, a dedicated public servant, creative force, and beloved family woman, passed away on July 23, 2024, in Columbia, Maryland. She was 75.

Born on December 20, 1948, in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Campbell's life was defined by her commitment to family, friends, and her community. Sue was a blend of intelligence, warmth, and unwavering generosity, leaving an enduring mark on all who knew her.

After graduating from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Mrs. Campbell furthered her education at Johns Hopkins University, earning a Master of Administrative Science in 1991. Her career path led her to the Social Security Administration (SSA), where she dedicated over two decades of service.

At SSA, Mrs. Campbell's career was impactful. Rising from a disabilities claims authorizer, she ultimately served on the commissioner's staff under three different presidential administrations. Her contributions were instrumental in shaping the SSA's mission, ranging from institutional planning and legislative analysis to participating in a transformation of the agency's first public website, improving its capabilities and SSA’s record serving a sometimes homebound population.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mrs. Campbell was an avid gardener, painter, chef, and crafts enthusiast. Sue found joy and solace in these creative pursuits, especially after she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease at 43. Sue loved to needlepoint, and in spite of her Parkinson’s symptoms, she made ten holiday stockings for the younger members of the family. 

To counteract the disease’s debilitating effects, she deepened her commitment to personal wellness practices, such as yoga, healthy cooking, and outdoor activities. Sue also deepened her community engagement, volunteering her time to teach computer skills to first graders and actively participating in her church. 

Her love of learning was boundless. She was an avid reader of books, newspapers and magazines, particularly relating to history, arts, Science, and culture. She was also a passionate traveler, often organizing group trips in the US and abroad, showcasing her adventurous spirit and meticulous planning skills.

Mrs. Campbell's family was the cornerstone of her life. She met her husband while attending Hood College, at an event for Andy Warhol. As a greeter at the event, Sue was asked to wear a Campbell’s soup can dress. Family lore has it that it led to the perfect intro from her husband, William Edward Campbell. The dress, now framed, hangs in a central place in her daughter, Christina’s and her husband, Steven Zausner’s, home in New York City, and is a constant reminder to them, and their daughter, Anastasia, of Sue’s creative, and experimental spirit. 

Sue is also survived by her husband Bill; daughter Christina; granddaughter Ana; brothers Thomas, Michael and Andrew Gudiness; sister Deborah Meyer; and numerous nieces and nephews, who remember her as a source of kindness and wisdom – a steady presence in their lives.

As we bid farewell to Sue, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, adventure, and love. Her memory will be cherished and honored by many. Sue's impact on her friends and family was considerable, and her spirit will forever be woven into the lives of her family, friends, and the countless individuals she inspired throughout her journey. In the words of one of her nieces, the family has lost a special woman. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 7th, 11am at Christ Lutheran Church, 701 S. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21230. A reception will follow the service.  Please note: Limited handicap parking is available at the church. Additional handicap parking and regular parking are available in the church’s parking garage at 11 E. Lee Street. This is a one-way street. One enters Lee street from Light street. The garage is on the left side. Enter the garage and park. Take the elevator to the plaza level. Turn until you see the church and walk to it. For those who need it, a lift Is available to bring one up to the entrance level to the church. Parking will be free. Just follow the directions in the program. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 701 South Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21230.