Obituary

Susan Denise Rupe Reid

May 5, 1965 – October 20, 2026

A Beautiful Life, A Mother’s Love, and a Legacy That Will Live Forever

Susan Denise Rupe Reid was a devoted wife, loving mother, extraordinary Mimi, compassionate nurse, and a woman whose kindness and love touched the lives of so many. Born on May 5, 1965, Susan lived a life marked by strength, sacrifice, determination, and an immeasurable love for her family. For 30 years, Susan dedicated her life to caring for others at St. Helena Parish Hospital. Nursing was never simply a career to her; it was a calling that reflected her compassionate heart and genuine desire to help others. Over three decades, she touched countless lives, comforted patients and families during difficult moments, and formed friendships that became an extension of her own family.

Of all the titles Susan held throughout her life, none brought her greater joy than being called “Mimi.” Her grandchildren were her entire world. Connor, Mason, and Grace were the light of her life. She was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her first great grandbaby, Ridge Paul Lasalle. Susan shared many years with her devoted husband. Bruce Reid, whose love and care were especially evident throughout her illness. She also had a special place in her heart for her pet dog “Rip”.

In June 2026, Susan began a difficult journey following her diagnosis of glioblastoma. Although the months that followed brought unimaginable challenges, her illness would never define the beautiful life she lived.

Susan was preceded in death by her father, Robert Rupe; mother and stepfather Bertha and Leon Curry; and her brothers, John Rupe and Richard Rupe.

Those left to cherish her beautiful memory include her loving husband, Bruce Reid; her daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer Ingram Ball and Joe Ball; her stepdaughter, Kacie Inabnitt-(Mason) her beloved grandchildren, Connor Tynes, Mason Lasalle (Haylyn), and Grace “Sissy” Lasalle; and her soon to be great grandson Ridge. She is also survived by her siblings, Donna Tanner, Michael Lestsinger (Kim), Mark Rupe (Rowena) Libby Albers, and Tracy Thomas (Sean); brother in law Anthony Reid (Pam) numerous nieces and nephews; and her very special best friend, Denise Stewart.

Susan leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years, possessions, or accomplishments. Her greatest legacy is the love she poured into her family and the kindness she shared with the world. Her family finds comfort in their faith and in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Though their hearts are broken, they know that the love Susan gave so freely will continue through the generations she helped shape. If love alone could have kept her here, Susan would have lived forever. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and being loved by her was one of life’s greatest gifts.

She will be forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered as the very best Mama and Mimi.

Visitation will be at Crain Funeral Home (1109 Bene Street, Franklinton, LA) on Sunday October 25th from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm and after 9:00 am on Monday. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 11:00 am Monday with Rev. Caleb Martin and Eld. Tommy Hudnall officiating. The Louisiana Nurses Honor Guard will provide a brief recognition ceremony at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial donations to St. Helena Parish Hospital (16874 Hwy. 43, Greensburg, LA 70441).