Susan S Hill Obituary, Death – Reston Woman Remembered for a Lifetime of Art, Creativity and Family
Susan “Sue” Sanders Hill, 85, of Reston, Virginia, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on December 2, 1940, to Josephine S. Sanders and Donald Sanders, she leaves behind a legacy shaped by creativity, curiosity, family and a lifelong passion for art.
Sue expressed her creativity through countless forms of art and craftsmanship. She was a fused-glass artist, seamstress, painter, quilter, jeweler, needlepointer, teacher and photographer. She was rarely without a project, whether she was creating something new, learning another technique or sharing what she knew with others.
Art was at the center of Sue’s life. She particularly loved fused glass and traveled internationally to study under accomplished artists, continually developing her skills and expanding her understanding of the craft. Her dedication to learning resulted in the creation of magnificent works that reflected both her artistic ability and her willingness to explore new ideas.
Teaching was another important part of her relationship with art. Sue enjoyed passing her knowledge to others, and her students held her in high regard. Her generosity with her time and expertise allowed her passion for creativity to influence people beyond her own family.
Those who knew Sue also remember her strong personality and lively curiosity. She began her days by reading the newspaper and was never one to shy away from a spirited political discussion. She had firm opinions and was comfortable expressing them, reflecting the inquisitive and engaged nature that remained part of her character throughout her life.
Above all, Sue was devoted to her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother whose children and grandchildren held a special place in her life. Her family remembers her as an extraordinary mother and grandmother whose love will remain an important part of their lives.
She is survived by her children, David L. Hill of Chantilly, Virginia, and Lisa H. Finneran and her husband, John F. Finneran, of Lake Anna, Virginia; grandchildren Michael S. Finneran and his wife, Lisa M. Finneran, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and Sean R. Finneran of Herndon, Virginia; and great-granddaughter Luna M. Finneran.
A private memorial service will be held with family.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked those wishing to honor Sue’s memory to consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Susan “Sue” Sanders Hill will be remembered for her remarkable creativity, love of learning, dedication to teaching and, most importantly, the love she gave to her family. Her artistic spirit and the knowledge she shared with others will remain part of the legacy she leaves behind.