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08/31/2023 07:27 AMSusan Cotting Gildersleeve Burns, age 74, of Old Saybrook, passed away peacefully on Aug. 10 under the compassionate care of Middlesex Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, following a brave and brief battle with cancer.
Born on Aug. 19, 1948, in Greenwich, Susan was the cherished daughter of the late Joan Matthews Gildersleeve and William Livingston Flake Gildersleeve. She is survived by her devoted daughter Tracy Bunovsky, and her husband Joe of Madison. She leaves behind four adoring grandchildren: Kyle, Savannah, Adam, and Alex, and a loving brother, Robert Gildersleeve. Susan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Lawrence Cole Burns, and her brother, Peter Gildersleeve.
A proud graduate of Greenwich High School, Susan’s early career was at Brunswick School. She later found fulfillment as an administrative and personal assistant for George von Peterrfy and his family, who embraced her as part of their own family. With a spirit of entrepreneurship, Susan, together with her husband Larry, ventured into the dry-cleaning business, opening Lighthouse Cleaners (formerly Eagle Cleaners) in January 1993. Their hard work and dedication turned the enterprise into a successful family business, which Susan and Tracy continued to operate with unwavering commitment after Larry’s sudden passing in 2007.
A passionate gardener, Susan took great pride in the exquisite English gardens she cultivated at her family home. Her green thumb brought beauty and joy to all who visited.
Though Susan was a private person, she cherished time spent with friends and family, and her memory will be kept alive in the hearts of those who loved her. She requested that no public services be held in her honor; instead, she hoped her friends would remember her fondly every time they gathered at her favorite spot, Luigi’s Restaurant in Old Saybrook.
Susan will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and love, and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her light will continue to shine through the treasured memories held by her family and friends.