Susan Ann Shears-Mills, age 68, passed away peacefully at her home on January 12, 2026, in
Madison, Ohio.

Susan was born on February 15, 1957, in Painesville, Ohio, to Magdalena Dumann-Shears and William
Ray Shears. She lived a life rich in creativity, faith, and deep love for her family.

Susan was a talented makeup artist, film producer, and writer, with a lifelong passion for storytelling
and the arts. As a young woman, she was crowned Miss Grapette, a title that reflected her beauty,
confidence, and vibrant spirit. She was known for her love of writing and film, and she found great joy in
the finer things in life—good food, meaningful movies, music, paintings, and treasured books.
Her sense of humor, empathy for others, and wisdom gained through life experiences left a lasting
impression on all who knew her. In her younger years, Susan loved to travel, and throughout her life
she enjoyed collecting coins, jewelry, and classic books. A devoted Catholic for many years, her faith
was deeply important to her and guided much of her life.

Above all else, Susan cherished her family. Her grandchildren were the light of her life—she adored
playing silly games with them and watching them grow. Family truly meant everything to her.

Susan is survived by her daughter, Madison (James) Johnson; her beloved grandchildren, Lucas and
Lindsay Johnson; her siblings, Mark (Beth) Shears and Jeane Shears-Burgwin; and her nieces and
nephews, Julie (Mathew) Calderon, Michelle (Jason) Lohr, Christopher (Emily) Shears, and Katherine
(Richard) Hodgson, along with many great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Magdalena Dumann-Shears and William Ray Shears, and
her brother, Ray William "Skip" Shears.

Susan's legacy lives on through her creativity, her faith, her laughter, and the deep love she gave so
freely to those around her.

Lake Erie Cremation & Funeral Services, 1500 Harpersfield Rd, Geneva, OH 44041, assisted the family with arrangements. (440)361-2273. www.LakeErieCrematory.com .