It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Marguerite Short on May 30, 2024. She was born April 28, 1947, in San Antonio, Texas, the daughter of the late Duane E. Mellor, Sr. and Phyllis (Robbins) Mellor. Susan is survived by her beloved husband Wallace B. Short, Jr.; daughter Samantha A. Short; brother, Duane E. Mellor, Jr.; sister, Patricia K. Pederson; along with numerous adored family members and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Richard Gary Mellor; and her sister, Diane E. Stanford.

Susan graduated from St. Mary's University (San Antonio) with a BBA in Personnel Management (1969) and a BA in Education (1972). Later, at Our Lady of the Lake in San Antonio, she was awarded a certification to teach elementary through 8th grade. Education became her life's work, and she taught at Will Rogers Elementary School in the San Antonio Independent School District from 1974 to 2006, retiring with 32 years of service. She continued to substitute teach at Will Rogers Elementary and other SAISD schools almost daily for another 6 years. She is a life member of the Will Rogers Elementary School PTA, holding every office while teaching there. Her passion to teach was strong, touching the lives of countless students and their parents. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering commitment to her students and fellow teachers left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Prior to her time in SAISD, Susan worked a year as an intake manager at the NEISD Pupil Appraisal Center for children with learning and behavioral difficulties, and she taught another year in a private school for children who were handicapped. For many years, she volunteered at St. David's Episcopal Church in San Antonio, working with the youth, and she later attended a summer camp with them in Rockport each summer.

Susan was a life member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority and a member of Daughters of the Republic of Texas.  (She was proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of Erastus "Deaf" Smith, hero of the war for Texas independence). She was a member of St. Mathew's Catholic Church in San Antonio and a member of the Legion of Mary until the late '90s, before becoming a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Helotes.

Susan poured her heart and soul into everything she did. As a mother and wife, she was a constant source of love, guidance, and support. Her family was her world, and she dedicated herself endlessly to nurturing and caring for them. Beyond her family and teaching, Susan had a deep love for animals and gardening. Her home was a haven for animals, and her garden was a place of beauty and tranquility. Susan will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and her legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A Rosary, followed by a Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at 9:30 am at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 10703 Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio. Burial will be Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 10:15 am at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Donations in Susan's memory may be made to an animal rescue organization or charity of your choice.