Lois "Susie" Walker Brewster

Susie Brewster, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, cousin, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully in Akron, Ohio, on August 27, 2026, at the age of 92.

Susie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 69 years, Albert J. “Sox” Brewster, III; her son, Bradford Doyle Brewster; her parents, Howard C. Walker, Sr. and Ruth Doyle Walker; and her brother, Howard C. “Howie” Walker, Jr.

Born in Akron on November 4, 1933, Susie attended Old Trail School, Laurel School, Smith College, and Katharine Gibbs School in Boston.

Sox affectionately described Susie’s career as that of a “professional volunteer.” Her dedication to serving the Akron community was extraordinary. She was an active member of the Junior League for many years and served as treasurer for the Akron Tennis Tournaments in the mid-1970s when the Junior League provided leadership for the tournaments.

Most of all, Susie devoted much of her life to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, where her generosity, passion, and countless hours of service left a legacy that continues to enrich the community today.

Susie was a charter member of the Women’s Auxiliary Board at Stan Hywet and held the positions of Vice President, Treasurer, and Finance Chairman during the 1960s and 1970s. During her tenure on the Board, she co-founded the Ohio Mart in 1966. What began as a small fundraiser and an important means of supporting and maintaining the historic estate has grown into a cherished regional tradition celebrating the autumn season.

Her contributions to Stan Hywet extended far beyond the Ohio Mart. She founded, managed, and served as a buyer for the gift shop; served on the Garden Committee; and played an instrumental role in fundraising for the restoration of the Japanese Garden and The Corbin Conservatory.

Susie was also an avid and accomplished gardener. She carefully planned her perennial gardens using a calendar on which she recorded when each plant would bloom, allowing her to thoughtfully arrange her gardens so that something was always in bloom throughout the seasons. Her passion and talent for gardening earned her several community awards for her home gardens on Melbourne Avenue and Hunters Trail. She also used her skills to serve as a gardener for the Summit County Historical Society.

In addition, Susie was an accomplished equestrian and enjoyed riding with Sox during their younger years. She also had an interest in antiques and was particularly knowledgeable about glass and chinaware.

Above all, Susie cherished her family. She leaves behind her children, Jay Brewster, Susan Tavenor (Tom), and Christine “Tina” Benadum; seven grandchildren, James Brewster (Lauren), Andrew Brewster (Christina), Nathan Tavenor (Kristen), Daniel Tavenor (Faith Blackburn), Laura Kopp (Kyle), Kyle Benadum (Mallory), and Chris Tavenor (Kim); and ten great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her cousins, Cecily Sesler and Ilene Parke; sisters-in-law, Alix Walker and Linda Jackson; and several cherished nieces and nephews.

Susie will be remembered for her devotion to family, her love of gardening and antiques, her remarkable commitment to her community, and the countless ways she humbly gave her time, support, and heart to the people and places she loved.

Susie will be laid to rest with Sox at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

If you wish to join the Brewster family in celebrating Susie’s life, calling hours will be held at Billow Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Fairlawn, OH 44333, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 2–3 p.m., followed by a memorial service from 3–4 p.m. All are invited to join the family for a Celebration of Life reception immediately following the service at Tangier West, 3150 W Market St, Akron, OH 44333.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Susie’s memory to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Memorial Donations, 714 North Portage Path, Akron, Ohio 44303, 330-315-3224.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel.