Susan Ladd Hartness, 73, of Statesville, N.C., a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully at her home on April 28, 2026, following a decline in health. Born on November 5, 1952, in Iredell County, N.C., Susan lived a life marked by selflessness and unwavering dedication to those around her.
Susan worked for many years at JP Stevens, where her commitment and diligence were respected and admired. Beyond her professional life, she was deeply engaged in her faith as an active member of Liberty Baptist Church. Her involvement in church activities reflected her generous spirit and genuine desire to help others, qualities that defined her throughout her life.
A passionate and caring individual, Susan loved her family dearly. She treasured the time spent with her husband, Ralph E. Hartness, with whom she shared a strong and loving partnership. Together they nurtured a family that was the center of Susan’s heart. She is survived by two sons, Keith Hartness and Jeff Hartness, along with Jeff’s wife, Sabrina, and two daughters, Jennifer Hartness and Amy Hartness. Her legacy of love and care continues through her four beloved grandchildren, Dylan Davis, Haley Hartness, Jeffrey Chase Hartness, and Morgan Hartness.
Susan also cherished the close bond she shared with her sisters, Lisa Walker, and her husband William, and Wanda Leviner. Her family remembers her kindness, her willingness to always put others before herself, and the joy she found in the simplest of pleasures. She enjoyed fishing, reading, and working puzzles, and often found solace and delight in trips to the mountains and the beach with her family.
She was preceded in death by her father, Elmer Ladd; her mother, Elsie Bennett Ladd; and her brother, Randall Ladd, whose memories she held dear and who remained a vital part of her life’s story.
A visitation to honor Susan’s life will be held on May 1, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Nicholson Funeral Home, 135 E Front Street, Statesville, N.C. This will be followed by a funeral service at Nicholson Funeral Home Chapel at 1 p.m. with Rev. Roger Holland and Rev. Ronnie Wooten officiating. Burial will follow in Iredell Memorial Park. Friends and family are invited to gather to remember a woman who touched so many with her generous heart and gentle spirit.
Susan Ladd Hartness leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and selflessness that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her memory will forever be treasured by her family and community, who mourn her loss while celebrating a life beautifully lived.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to American Cancer Society.
Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Hartness family.