Susan Brydges Varenne

Susan B. Varenne 1942-2019

Obituary

Susan B. Varenne, beloved mother and grandmother passed into eternal rest with our Lord on May 26, 2019 at the age of 76.

Susan was born on June 26, 1942 in Battle Creek, Michigan, the daughter of Maryann Brydges (nee Martin) and Frederick Brydges.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Hervé Varenne, her three children, David, Michael and Catherine, and their spouses, Liz, Veronica and Daniel. She leaves behind beloved grandchildren Charles, Margaret, Juliette, Henry, Luke, Corbin and Liam. Susan is also mourned by sister Robin Anthony, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Susan and Hervé met and married at the University of Chicago where she received her M.A. in Religion and Literature. They moved to New York in 1972, where they made their life together, first on the Upper West Side and then in Mount Vernon.

A lifelong educator, Susan taught high school in Taiwan and Japan as well as in New York City at West Side High School. In 1989, she received her PhD in Philosophy and Education from Columbia University.

Susan was the editor of the Vintage Spiritual Classics series of books which provided readers with a substantive understanding of mankind’s relation to the divine. She also authored The Essential Pope Benedict XVI, a comprehensive overview of the Pontiff’s concerns and beliefs.

Susan was a lover of all animals, especially horses. She spent much of her youth riding and taking care of horses. She was able to pursue this hobby as an adult, which brought her much joy and satisfaction. Many were drawn to Susan due to her outgoing and friendly nature, her intense intellectual curiosity and her amazing cooking. She provided the fulcrum around which her family revolved.

Susan and Hervé were devoted parishioners of Corpus Christ Parish in Manhattan.  They participated in parish life, and were great supporters of the Friends of Liturgical Music who fund the choir that makes the church famous.

In Lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Friends of Liturgical Music - Aid to the Church in Need, White Plains Hospital.

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