Susan Lillard Lanier

Susan Lillard Lanier entered into rest peacefully at her home on September 22, 2022. She had been surrounded by her family, friends, and loving caregivers.

Susan was born to Phyllis and Ralph Lillard in Columbia, SC, November 12, 1940. She graduated from the Academy of Richmond County and received her degree from Augusta University in 1963 and was among the first class of students the year it became a four year university.

Susan was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and businesswoman. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years William S. Lanier, Jr; children, William S. Lanier, III and Susan Lanier Miller; son-in-law Stephen Miller; and her grandson Henry Eugene Miller and step grandson Caleb Lee Poplin, her sister Melinda Gerum who resides in Ft Lauderdale, Florida with her husband, John.

Susan was a successful business owner with a lifelong passion for fashion and design. If you ever had your “colors” done, you most likely spent some time with Susan. She launched a number of small companies throughout her life, and ended her career as sole owner of “Susan’s” clothing boutique located in Augusta, GA. A proud part of the Surrey Center family for thirty-four years, she was loved and respected by her fellow tenants who affectionately referred to her as “the Mayor of Surrey.” Susan was quick of wit, loved a good joke, and always enjoyed seeing her friends in the store. Her work and family, including many feline and canine members, brought her great joy. She was an animal lover of the purest form. Susan was a proud member of the Augusta Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution.

All who loved her dearly will never forget her tenacity, humor, independence, dedication, and caring for them. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Thornwell Orphanage at thornwell.org or the CSRA Humane Society at csra-hs.com.