Susie Mae Stanley, born Susie Mae Daniels, was born on January 6, 1939, in Meigs, Georgia (Thomas County), to the late Roberta Walden and the late Beaufort Daniels. She was raised in Thomas County, Georgia, by her beloved grandmother, Janie Walden, who played a foundational role in her life. Susie received her early education in the Thomas County School District in Thomasville, Georgia.
In 1955, Susie married Henry Florence, and from this union, seven children were born: Amanda, Janie, Vernon, Vernell, Debra, Jacqueline, and Lesha. In 1956, she relocated with her family to Miami, Florida, where she devoted her life to raising her children. Though her marriage later ended in divorce, Susie remained steadfast in her commitment to her family, raising her children with strength, resilience, and unconditional love.
Susie later worked as a waitress at the Past Time Bar, where she met R.T. (Ira) Stanley, whom she affectionately called “Skinny”. They were married in 1976, and from their union, they raised one daughter, Travika Stanley. Though separated in later years, their relationship remained a meaningful and cherished chapter in her life.
Susie attended Miami Beauty School, earning her cosmetology license, and styled hair for many years. Committed to caring for others, she later pursued nursing, earned her nursing license, and worked as a private duty nurse throughout Miami Beach. She was deeply loved by the many clients she cared for and by their families, with whom she often formed lasting bonds.
Susie knew the Lord from a young age and lived a life grounded in faith. As an adult, she became a devoted member of New Jerusalem Power Holiness Church in Liberty City, where she faithfully served in various capacities, including singing in the adult choir and serving on the usher board.
Susie was gifted with creative hands and a generous spirit. She was a seamstress who loved making clothes and took great pride in her work. For more than three decades, she also crocheted blankets, lovingly creating them for many families as they welcomed new babies. She was also known for her cooking and hospitality, often sharing stories of how her grandmother Janie taught her everything she knew. During holidays and family gatherings, Susie’s home was filled with warmth, good food, and laughter. Anyone who visited could expect a meal, a story, and a place to rest.
In her later years, as her health began to slow her down, Susie remained connected to those she loved. Though she was no longer able to cook and tend to her family as she once had, her
presence, voice, and love remained constant. She maintained relationships that spanned decades, speaking regularly with family and friends who loved her deeply and remained devoted to her until the end.
Susie Mae Stanley peacefully passed away on February 5, 2026, in Coral Gables, Florida, at the age of 87.
She was preceded in death by her husband, R.T. (Ira) Stanley; her daughters Debra and Lesha; her grandchildren Tavaris Conley, Ronald Delancy, Jr., and Ashley Florence; and her great-grandson, Rashad Harris.
She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Amanda (Roger Sr.), Janie, Vernon (Anita), Vernell, Jacqueline (Ruth), and Travika (Van); her grandchildren: Lashawn, Rashonda, Bernard, Latoya, Kyron, Roger Jr., LaDonna, Dimitrius, Henry, Leondra, Devin, and Alexis; along with a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Susie Mae Stanley was the matriarch of a five-generation family. Her life was marked by faith, creativity, perseverance, and enduring love. Her legacy will continue to live on through the generations she raised, the hands she guided, and the hearts she touched. She will be forever missed, and her memory forever cherished.