Susan M. Perez

Susan M. Perez, age 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Heritage Grove Estates.

She was born the daughter of Rito and Leonila M. (Mata) Valdivia on August 11, 1940. On September 12, 1959, Susan married John J. Perez at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Together, they shared 65 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, cherished memories, and adventures until John’s passing on October 3, 2024.

Susan had a servant’s heart and found her greatest joy in caring for others. Affectionately known as “Mama Sue,” she lovingly babysat more than 60 children over the years for family and friends. She treated every child as her own, creating a home filled with warmth, comfort, and unconditional love. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and she was happiest preparing delicious meals for those she loved, never letting anyone leave without something to eat.

Her Catholic faith was the foundation of her life. As a devoted member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, Susan faithfully volunteered for many years with Fiesta and the Altar Society, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed. She and John also enjoyed traveling, dancing, and spending time together on date nights. One of Susan’s favorite traditions was traveling to California for the Valdivia family reunions, where she treasured time with her relatives.

Susan and John in their later years, moved to Heritage Grove Estates, formerly known as McCrite Plaza, where her gentle spirit, kindness, and active participation in community activities quickly made her a beloved friend among fellow residents.

Survivors include her two sisters, Monica Matchett (David), and Mary Ann Valdivia; and one brother, Angel Valdivia (Mary). Other survivors include numerous beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John; siblings, Angelina Valdivia, Victoria Campos, Herlinda Holmes, Hazel Rocha, Maria Chavez, Lucia Martin, Francis Hernandez, Carmen Torres, Tony Valdivia, Rito Valdivia, Jr., and Raymundo Valdivia.

Susan will lie in state from 9:30-10:30 A.M., with a rosary prayed at 10:30 A.M., on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow and be celebrated at 11:00 A.M., at the church. Cremation will take place, and she will be laid to rest at Grantville Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made in Susan's memory to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in care of the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.