Susan B. Pacuta

September 24, 1953 - November 1, 2024

Susan B. Pacuta (Traynor), 71, of Yardville, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 1, 2024. In true Sue fashion, she had prewritten her own obituary, but unfortunately, left out where to find it. So mom, I’m sorry but as your kids, we will try our best.

Sue was born at Kindley Air Force Base in Bermuda to military parents; her father a Lt. Colonel in the Air Force and her mother having previously served in the Army as Staff Sergeant. From Bermuda they went to Germany and ultimately came to settle in Hamilton Square, NJ just prior to the start of 6th grade. A graduate of Steinert High School, Class of 1971. Her first job was at Stewart’s Root Beer on Route 33, and without fail, it became somewhat of a tradition to take us kids there at least once a year while she reminisced fondly about working there.

 She met the love of her life, John F. Pacuta Jr. while at Steinert and they married in 1976. They welcomed a son three years later and a daughter six years after. She unexpectedly became a widow in 1986 and in miraculous fashion, found the strength to not just carry on, but surpass expectations. She welcomed her second son in 1993.

 For 11 years, she worked at EG&G Princeton Applied Research before transitioning to the state of New Jersey; first at the Economic Development Authority and then the New Jersey Schools Development Authority. Sue did not simply work hard, she excelled at her job and everyone knew it. Make no mistake, she was tough but fair. She went to bat for any deserving employee even if it meant sacrificing herself. After 17 years, she retired as a Director in 2018.

 As we reflect on our mother’s life, I think it is hitting us just how amazing and awe inspiring our mother was. Being a single mother did not define her. Her work did not define her. But her actions left a lot to live up to. She taught us the importance of hard work, charity, resiliency, and that no matter what, you do what is right. The morals and values she instilled in us is unmatched. She was incredibly intelligent, insightful, an amazing writer and an avid reader. She was funny and perhaps her greatest quality, humble (as her kids, we would say too humble).

 Our mother was like an island of misfit toys-she had no tolerance for judgment and was able to find a friendship with anyone. She hosted an open house every year on Christmas Eve for those who really had nowhere to go. She baked 15 different types of cookies and every single person who came through those doors, left with a full stomach and a gift from the dollar store. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend who will be missed by all who loved and knew her. As we now try to navigate this world without our rock, there is tremendous comfort in knowing she will be reunited with her husband after 38 years. Mom, your job here is complete. While the burden is heavy to carry on without you, we know you are proud. Enjoy the next phase of your journey.

Predeceased by her parents, George D. and Phyllis (Sheeder) Traynor; and her husband John F. Pacuta, Jr.; she is survived by her children, John (Melissa) F. Pacuta, III, Christine (Kurt, son Max) Pacuta and Joshua J. Pacuta; a sister, Katherine Gallo; a brother, William (Priscilla) Traynor; 2 grandchildren, John F. Pacuta, IV and Noelle C. Pacuta-Merkle; as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, other relatives and dear friends.

Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Buklad-Merlino Yardville Memorial Home, 30 Yardville-Allentown Road, Yardville, NJ 08620.

Funeral services will be held Friday, November 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Buklad-Merlino Yardville Memorial Home, 30 Yardville-Allentown Road, Yardville, NJ 08620.

Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Hamilton, NJ. 

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