Susan T. (Bolden) Ryan

TOPSFIELD - Mrs. Susan Theresa (Bolden) Ryan, 59, of Topsfield, MA, beloved wife of Thomas A. Ryan, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on April 3rd, 2023 at her home following a courageous 4 ½-year-long battle with cancer.

Born in Dothan, AL, she was the daughter of the late James and Janet (Palardy) Bolden.  Raised and educated in Beverly and a graduate of Beverly High School, Susan continued her education receiving an associate degree from Bradford College and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College.

As a young woman, Susan’s first job was as a tour guide with the House of Seven Gables, and she served “The Gables” in various capacities over several years. This would turn out to be one of her favorite places to be, as she loved the gardens, the water view, the house, and its history. She made many friends at “The Gables”, friendships she fostered throughout her lifetime.  Later, Susan spent more than a decade as an Administrative Assistant in Corporate and Professional Education at North Shore Community College where she took great pride in helping students find new opportunities and their chosen path in life.  

Her need to help others was only surpassed by her love and devotion to her family. She was happiest when surrounded by her husband, daughters, siblings, and their children celebrating all of life’s ups and downs. No matter the situation, Susan’s bright smile and positive outlook could always be counted on. Her daughters were the light of her life, and she relished being involved in their many activities, being present for their milestones, and was so proud of their many accomplishments. Susan enjoyed weekend rides with her husband, especially being driven in his sports car with the top-down soaking in all of nature’s grandeur.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed visiting the library.  Susan will always be remembered for her outgoing and friendly personality that endeared her to many, her generosity to others, her love for family, and will be deeply missed by her loving family and all the hearts she touched throughout her life.

Surviving Susan, in addition to her loving husband Tom, are her daughters; Samantha and Jaclyn Ryan of Topsfield, her brothers; Marc Bolden and his wife, Debra of Dracut, Bryan Bolden and his wife, Madelene of Falmouth, Scott Bolden and his wife, Candis of Peabody, and her sisters; Jeanne Bolden of Beverly and Joanne Bolden of Beverly, and many nieces and nephews.

ARRANGEMENTS: A celebration of Susan’s life will be held on Saturday, May 6th from 11 AM to 2 PM at the House of Seven Gables, 115 Derby St., Salem, MA.  Assisting the family with the arrangements is O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS. Expressions of sympathy may be made to: Because, the Mass General Hospital Fundraising Community at because.massgeneral.org/SusanRyan   Donations in Susan’s honor will be used to fund Ovarian Cancer research and support the Mass General Community Location Cancer Center in Danvers, MA which brings local access to patients for cancer treatment and care versus traveling into Boston.  To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

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