Susan Linda Barnes-Brown

Susan Linda Barnes-Brown (née Barnes) of Needham died on March 16, 2025, from complications due to cirrhosis. Born in 1951, her first career post-college was as a lounge singer and hostess in several Providence bars; she carried that fondness for singing and music throughout her life. When she later chose to become a homemaker, she developed a love of teaching and found purpose being a consultant for families entering the then-burgeoning homeschooling movement.

Susan was a staunch feminist, advocated for reproductive rights all her life, and supported civil justice for all. As a mother of extremely premature twins, she fought for NICU practices that are common today; as a wife, she supported her husband when he strove to co-found his groundbreaking business law firm in the early 90s; as the eldest of seven children, she enjoyed hosting family get-togethers in all seasons.

She was predeceased by her only son David in 2009; her brother Tim Barnes in 2014; and her beloved husband of 50 years, Peter Barnes-Brown (née Brown), in 2020 from laryngeal cancer. She is survived by her daughters: Diana Barnes-Brown of Portland, OR, and Julia Barnes-Brown, David’s twin, of Needham, MA; by her sisters and brothers: Maribeth Barnes of Taunton, MA,  Michaela Gordon of Lexington, MA, Wenda B. Elias of Providence, RI, Chris Barnes of Rumford, RI, and Jeff Barnes of Rumford, RI; and by six nieces and nephews, two grandnephews, and a grandniece.

A celebration of Susan’s life as well as Peter’s will be held on Saturday, August 23 from 11AM until 1PM in the Eaton Funeral Home 1351 Highland Ave Needham. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.