Suzanne D. Irwin (Dietz) passed away peacefully at her home in Plattsburgh, NY on June 4, 2026, in the devoted care of her husband, Dale, who remained by her side until her final breath.

Suzanne was born at Vassar Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY to Charles J. Dietz and Eleanor C. Dietz. She spent her early years attending elementary school in the Arlington School District and several Catholic schools in various states as her father’s career as a Civil Engineer with the federal government moved the family frequently. She graduated from Bishop McDevitt Catholic School in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania and continued her education by studying nursing at the university level. She started her career as a nurse at Mass General, continued as an obstetric nurse, and served as assistant coroner in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. The latter part of her career she worked as a private home-health geriatric nurse to the elderly.

Suzanne was a woman of remarkable creativity, intelligence, and individuality. A gifted horticulturist, she took tremendous pride in her extensive English gardens, which reflected her appreciation for beauty and nature. She was also an accomplished artist who lovingly stenciled and painted every room in her home, transforming ordinary spaces into works of art. Her talents extended to creating stunning wreaths that brought warmth and joy to her family and friends. An avid collector of antiques and treasured objects, she had a distinctive sense of style and appreciation for history.

Known for her eccentric flair, sharp wit, and candor, Suzanne always spoke her mind and stood firmly for what she believed was right. She advocated for those whose voices were often unheard and was a steadfast supporter of the gay community. She found joy in flowers, music, art, meaningful conversation, and interesting people. Suzanne was deeply proud of her Catholic faith and of raising her three children within that tradition.

Above all, Suzanne’s greatest pride was her family. She was a devoted wife of 55 years, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose love and influence will endure for generations.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dale P. Irwin; her daughter, Megan Banister and her husband, Todd Banister; her son, Shawn Flahive-Irwin and his wife, Claire Flahive-Irwin; and her daughter, Marcella M. Stabile. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Elisabeth Cirrincione, Adrianna Stabile, Francis “Frankie” Stabile, Nicholas Banister and his wife Brid Banister and their two sons Teddy and baby Max, and Rachel Banister; her sister Deborah Cavallario and her husband Joseph Cavallario; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Suzanne was predeceased by her parents, Charles J. Dietz and Eleanor C. Dietz Henry, her stepfather, Reid Henry, her sister, Eleanor Foley, and her son-in-law, Francis P. Stabile III.

To those who loved her, Suzanne was known by many names throughout her life – “Suzy,” “The General”, “Stella”, “Bucket”, and “Grandma Stutz” among them – but each reflected the same unforgettable woman: strong-willed, creative, fiercely loving, and entirely herself.

Her family will always remember the beauty she created, the laughter she inspired, the convictions she held, and the unwavering love she gave. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, gardens, artwork, traditions, and the many lives she touched.

She fought a good fight right up until the very end. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. There will NEVER be another Suzanne Irwin. She will remain a LEGEND.

Suzanne’s family would like to thank all of her friends, Father Fish, the nurses and doctors at CVPH Medical Center for their care during her various hospital stays. They would also like to acknowledge Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Center, the Plattsburgh Fire Department, her loving nurse of more than 10 years, Erin Kelly, and her loving caretaker, Janet Dezan.

Services will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 PM at R.W. Walker Funeral Home in Plattsburgh, NY. A Catholic Mass will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 10:00 AM at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in Plattsburgh, NY.

Please join us for a reception following the mass at 1:00 PM at 53 Blair Road in Plattsburgh.

Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY 12901.