Obituary of Susan Hughes

Susan M. (nee Gratsch) Hughes, beloved wife of Leonard Hughes II, cherished mother of sons Michael (Claudine) Hughes and Leonard (Beth) Hughes III, loving grandmother of Jacob, Leanne, Hery and Helena. Dear sister of Linda Gates, Donna Wood, Jack Gratsch, Jr. and the late Gary Gratsch. She was the daughter of the late Jack and Merida (nee Ard) Gratsch, Sr. Susan was raised in the Catholic Church and followed Christ throughout her life. She was a faithful member of St. John Vianney and St. Margaret of Cortona Parishes. She volunteered at the Cincinnati Zoo and Cincinnati Children's Hospital. She was a devoted Columbia Township Trustee for more than 25 years, (13 days shy of her 26th year anniversary). Constantly caring for the township and the people who lived there through hard times and prosperous times. The following is something she wrote just recently: "There is no “I” in the word Board – as trustees, we’re not here to do our own personal thing. We’re here to serve the people. I’ve lived in Columbia Township my entire life. I grew up in Madison Place, attended Cure of Ares school - St. John Vianney Parish that today is Good Shepherd Montessori. I’ve been a trustee 24 years and have a passion for making our township the best place possible for our residents. I’m so proud of this little park in my childhood neighborhood where I’m pictured – we trustees worked with state representative Tom Brinkman and the school to win a grant for this park that’s open to students and, after school, to all residents. This past year we won more grants than ever in the township’s history. Columbia Township is the best it’s ever been- and the best is yet to come". Even more that her love of volunteering and helping others was the love and devotion she had for her family. Susan passed away peacefully on December 9, 2023, at the age of 67. ​Susan's family will be receiving friends during a visitation on Wednesday, December 20th from 3:00 - 7:00 pm at Thomas-Justin Memorial, 7500 Montgomery Rd. (45236) Kenwood. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, December 21st at 11:00 St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 3105 Madison Rd. (45209) Oakley. Inurnment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery.