Susan Cecelia Falcone

On Sunday, April 26, 2026, Susan Cecelia (Meehan) Falcone quietly passed away in her sleep beside her devoted husband of 44 years, James John Falcone, in Gilbert, Arizona. Susan often described Jim as “the love of her life,” “the kindest man she ever met,” and “the answer to all of her prayers.” Her family finds peace in knowing she departed this life next to the one person she couldn’t live without.

Susan was born into a very Irish Catholic family on the South Side of Chicago on August 8, 1950. Her father, Edward Meehan Sr., was a lauded firefighter. Her mother, Cecelia O’Leary, was an opera singer and political organizer for the Democratic Party. As a teenager, Susan served as a page for prominent liberal leaders, advocating for desegregation at the height of the Chicago riots. She later attended Purdue University and pursued a career in advertising.

Susan’s most fulfilling job came later in life as a full-time mother to her daughters, Kathleen Christine Falcone and Susan “Susie” Alexandra Falcone. She was incredibly proud that they both graduated from Southern Methodist University. Susan also adored Kathleen’s husband, Matthew King. To her, he didn’t just marry into the family, he belonged in it all along.

She never walked into a room unnoticed. Her presence was as captivating as her bold sense of style–red was her “signature color.” Magnetic and charming, funny and outgoing, she was truly the life of the party. She also had a way of making everyone she spoke to feel seen, even when all eyes were on her.

She was an excellent chef. Cooking was her love language. You could taste the warmth and care baked into every bite. Her daughters’ friends will always remember her delicious snacks and iconic Halloween parties. She lived to entertain, making rounds at every party, ensuring no one had an empty glass or an empty plate. In addition to being an incredible hostess, she was an incredibly nurturing spirit: a loving wife and mother, a loyal and generous friend. She made life feel like a celebration. She will be missed by all who were lucky enough to stand in her spotlight.

Susan is survived by her husband, James; her daughters, Kathleen and Susie; her son-in-law, Matthew; her brother, Edward Meehan and his wife Teri; brother-in-law Lawrence Falcone and his wife Donna; and her nieces Lisa Williams and Gina Moore. She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Cecelia; and her sisters, Jean and Cathy Meehan.

Funeral services will be held at Saint Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Gilbert, Arizona. Date to be announced.