Suzanne Gerbasi, 64, of Santa Maria, California passed away on February 9, 2021 in Santa Barbara, Ca. Suzanne was born in
Templeton, Ca. A professor of Public Speaking and Communication, she received her B.A. and M.A. in Communication Studies from CSU,
Sacramento, CA.
Teaching at Cal Poly, Allan Hancock, Santa Barbara City College, and Central Coast Community College, Suzanne had a passion for education, always offering advice, feedback, and helpful resources to her students. With a deeply innate ability to inspire hope in places where hope seemed absent, she also loved her time spent teaching in a men's prison, a place her gift was readily welcomed by those who were in contact with her.
Suzanne’s daughter was her pride and joy, their bond unbreakable in its foundation of trust and honesty. When she wasn't teaching or spending
time talking to her daughter, Susie would throw pottery—a hobby that led to the creation of dozens of pieces that she proudly kept or displayed throughout her home. She also had a knack for gardening and a unique gift for helping flora grow and thrive even under dismal
circumstances. Susie was also a Pittsburgh Steelers fan who never skipped the opportunity to wear her jersey and cheer on her favorite team.
She will be deeply missed by those who knew her, but will forever be carried in the hearts of those she loved. Suzanne is survived by her
daughter, Lindsey Rai, her son-in-law, JJ, her two grandchildren, Kais and Rhys, as well as her sisters, Patty, Annie, and Terri. She is preceded in death by her brothers, Bob and John.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Homeboy Industries, 130 W Bruno St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, or The Sarah House, 2612 Modoc Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, or Ronald McDonald House Charities in Omaha, 620 S 38th Ave. Omaha, NE 68105.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.