Pittsburgh Logo
File #: 2016-0690    Version: 1
Type: Proclamation Status: Adopted
File created: 7/26/2016 In control: City Council
On agenda: 7/26/2016 Final action: 7/26/2016
Enactment date: 7/26/2016 Enactment #: 439
Effective date: 7/26/2016    
Title: NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize the life and legacy of Susie Gross, for her extraordinary teaching career and her devotion to the children of the J.C.C. Pre-School and commends the J.C.C. for the naming of a pre-school room in her memory and raises a glass of Diet Coke on the day of the dedication of Susie's Room; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Friday, August 19, 2016, to be "Susie Gross Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.
Sponsors: Corey O'Connor, All Members
Indexes: PROCLAMATION - MR. O'CONNOR
body
WHEREAS, in the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened!" Susan Segall Gross, affectionately known as Susie, was born in Miami and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, attended Morris Harvey College/University of Charleston, where she earned an Early Childhood teaching degree which prepared her for her life's work and a lasting legacy; and,

WHEREAS, after a short teaching stint in Atlanta, Susie married the love of her life, Roy Gross, moved to Pittsburgh and began teaching at Rankin Elementary School. She raised two beautiful and accomplished daughters, Leslie and Alison, and returned to teaching, first for two years as a substitute and then for 20 years as a Lead Teacher/Educator at the Jewish Community Center Pre-School in Squirrel Hill; and,

WHEREAS, having died unexpectedly in April 2016, the legacy of Susie Gross is marked by a huge, never ending smile and a dedication to the children in her care. She proved to be an extraordinary teacher, forging relationships with toddlers that lasted into childhood and creating bonds with their families. She put everything she had into the J.C.C. Pre-School and every ounce of compassion and love into the children; and,

WHEREAS, in addition to her devotion to the children and families of the JCC Pre-School, Susie Gross left an irreplaceable memory for everyone who knew her. Devoted to her family, she adored her three grandchildren: Emma, Brody and Landon, who live in New York City, traveling regularly to be with them, never coming empty handed or without sweets or baked goods. Her unselfish sacrifice for her husband, daughters and grandchildren has left an indelible mark upon them forever; and,

WHEREAS, having a remarkable cadre of friends who felt the loss of her presence and her love, Susie was a community asset and a beloved icon, seen walking the neighborhood with children in tow and a smile on her face. In her memory, the Jewish Community Center will designate a room in t...

Click here for full text