Susan Forney Perry

Susan Forney Perry, at the remarkable age of 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10th 2026 surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on July 4th, 1932 in Topeka, Kansas, to Robert and Jane Forney (Akers). A proud alumna of Topeka High School, she graduated in 1949, paving the way for a life rich with learning and adventure. Her academic journey continued at Kansas University, where she cultivated many life-long friendships, especially among her sisters in the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. Susan earned her degree in Physical Education in 1954, marking only the beginning of her remarkable life.

As a Navy spouse, Susan embraced new horizons as she relocated to Hokkaido, Japan, where she taught at their American military school. Upon returning to the United States, she traveled extensively residing in many places including Kansas City, MO; Plymouth, MI; Memphis TN; Boston, MA; Davenport, IA; Richmond, VA ; and ultimately, Atlanta, GA.

In the vibrant city of Atlanta, Susan found a home within the community of Peachtree Presbyterian Church, forming friendships that enriched her life. An avid gardener, she created a flourishing garden at her retirement home that continues to thrive today. Susan continued to give back to her community throughout her life, donating to various organizations, including the American Cancer Society, Washburn University, and the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library.

Beyond her green thumb, Susan loved the outdoors, enjoying activities such as swimming, tennis, water skiing, and boating. Her affection for animals lasted her entire life, dogs were her favorite. The wanderlust always stayed with her, enjoying summers spent in Cape Cod, family vacations in Hilton Head, and memorable cruises, including one particularly special cruise with her daughter Jane from Seattle to Los Angeles.

Most of all, it was the time spent with family that brought Susan her greatest joy. Whether it was traveling to Topeka, Kansas, Hilton Head, SC or Florence, Alabama to watch her grandchildren participate in school and sports.

In 2021, after being away for over 66 years, her daughter Jane, finally convinced her it was time to return to Topeka. She moved into Brewster Place where she participated in many social activities including playing bridge, swimming, bus rides around the city and gardening.

Susan is survived by her daughter Jane Perry McKinley, Topeka, KS and her son Dick Perry (Becky), Florence, AL. She had 5 grandchildren, Jessica Rinkes (Brandon) Holton, KS; Amber Schultz (Dan) Topeka, KS; Hayden Copeland (Julia) Nashville, TN. William Perry and Jonathan Perry, Florence, Alabama, as well as 5 great-grandchildren Oakleigh, Clara, Berkeley, Andi and John.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Jane Forney, her daughter, Susie Copeland and her grandson, Griffin Copeland. 

A memorial service to honor Susan’s life will take place on Saturday, January 17th at 11:00AM at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home- Midtown Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue Topeka, KS 66604 with Pastor Tobias Schlingensiepen officiating. The memorial service will be live-streamed and will begin 10 minutes before service time. To view the service online, click the link here: Susan Forney Perry Memorial Service

Private family inurnment will take place at Topeka Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Susan’s name to either First Congregational Church of Topeka [Donate to First Congregational Church of Topeka] or Helping Hands Humane Society [Donate to Helping Hands Humane Society]    

Susan Forney Perry’s legacy of love, warmth, and kindness will forever be remembered by those she touched. Her spirit continues to bloom, much like the gardens she tended, reminding us all to cherish the beauty of relationships and the joy of giving back. Her legacy will continue to thrive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

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