Susan R. Bain

Susan Rita Bain, 70, of Annapolis, Maryland, passed away on May 16, 2025. Born on November 24, 1954, in Ithaca, New York, Sue was the loving daughter of the late Rita and Walter Bain, Sr. As a young child, her family relocated to Florida, and later to Northern Virginia, where they lived in Falls Church briefly before settling in Springfield. While spending most of her High School years at West Springfield High School, her family moved to Lovettsville, Virginia, during her Senior year and she graduated from Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville in the spring of 1973. Throughout her younger years, she enjoyed her endearing nickname, Susie B.

During her teenage years, Susan was actively involved in Sea Scouts, where she developed a strong sense of camaraderie and adventure that she cherished throughout her life. Through a partnership with the National Parks Service and Sea Scouts, aboard the Lightship Chesapeake (then docked at Haynes Point, and now a museum in the Baltimore Inner Harbor), she met the father of her children, whom she maintained a close friendship with for the rest of her life. Their relationship inspired her interest in scuba diving.

Sue was a warm, affectionate, attentive, proud, and doting mother raising her two children: Danielle Marie Rogal-Hudspeth (Gary), of Bowie, MD; and Jeremy Joseph Rogal, of Odenton, MD. She was a beloved grandmother to her three granddaughters: Ari Rogal-Hudspeth, Zadyn Rogal-Hudspeth, and Ella Rogal. She is also survived by her seven siblings, as well as many adoring nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. She could often be found endeavoring upon crafting projects spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Susan had a gentle and creative spirit. She found great joy in crafting extravagant floral arrangements, wreaths, and tablescapes, painting ceramics, and making miniature scenery in Christmas ornaments, usually with her signature bunny and mushroom. She had a talent for writing heartfelt poetry and imaginative children's stories. Her love for animals—especially rabbits—was a defining part of who she was. She adored all woodland creatures, forest beauty, and idyllic toadstools.

Her passion for bunnies was well known. Whether it was spotting one in the wild or surrounding herself with bunny-themed figurines and pictures, they always brought a smile to her face. In addition to her admiration for bunnies in art and nature, she had several pet rabbits over the years, each deeply loved and cared for. She was also known to rescue animals in need, adding at least one cat and dog into her childhood home and making sure that Danielle and Jeremy grew up surrounded by their many cherished pets.

Sue was an avid environmentalist and fervent advocate for the natural world. As such, she was a staunch lifelong supporter of PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, always standing up for what she believed was right and making sure that no animal was ever left behind or suffering under her watch..

That philosophy ran deep and included her devotion to vulnerable people, especially the poor and elderly populations. Professionally, Susan dedicated much of her adult life to caring for the elderly, working in elder care with compassion and devotion as a Nursing Home Activities Coordinator and Home Health Caregiver. Her kind heart and nurturing nature made her a comforting presence to many.

Accordingly, in her devoted faith, her patron saint was St Francis of Assisi, as she truly felt connected to his love of animals and nature, his care and advocacy for the poor, sick, and marginalized, and his humility and compassionate spirit. This applies equally in her adoration of Mother Teresa. Celebrating holidays and special occasions with her family brought her immense joy, and she had a knack for decorating her atmosphere.

Above all, Sue was deeply devoted to her family. Her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, and nephews were a constant source of joy and pride. She valued her relationships and poured her love into every connection. She was an extremely generous gift-giver, always going the extra mile to share something special, always uniquely and beautifully wrapped. She held a special bond with her grandmother, "Nanny," who lived with her family for many years and played a formative role in her upbringing.

Susan will be remembered for her sensitive soul, creative talents, boundless love for animals, and above all, her unwavering love for her family. Though her journey was not without hardship, she touched the lives of many with kindness and imagination, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and quiet strength. She was an inspiration to all that knew her! 

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 109 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD 21401, with burial to follow. Flowers can be sent to Beall Funeral Home, 6512 Crain Highway, Bowie, MD 20715. 

Donations may be made in Sue’s memory to PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) https://www.peta.org , any local animal rescue organization or to a charity that supports elder care.