It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Valeen (Perkins) Scurria of Springfield, Missouri.  Susan was a beloved wife, talented artist, and passionate baker, who departed this life on January 26, 2025, at the age of 63. Born in Kansas City, Kansas, to George and Artelyn (White) Perkins, Susan spent her life in pursuit of her passions and nurturing her relationships, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.  Susan grew up in Independence, Missouri and Lee’s Summit, Missouri.  Her parents were transferred to the Dallas, Texas area where Susan graduated from Turner High School in Carrollton, Texas. On February 18, 1989, Susan married Gerald Scurria.  Together they shared 36 years of marriage.

Susan will be remembered not only for her unwavering spirit but also for her remarkable talent in cross-stitching. A dedicated and determined individual, she taught herself this intricate art while traveling with her husband, Gerald, for work.  Her creativity and commitment to excellence bore fruit as she won several awards for her cross-stitch pieces in three states.  Among her most cherished accomplishments was a special commission for a custom piece for a retired military general during her time in Texas, showcasing her extraordinary skill and dedication.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Susan found solace and joy in baking, a passion that blossomed during her rehabilitation after cancer surgery. Drawing upon her mother’s cherished recipes, she put her own unique twist on traditional baked goods and became renowned for her delectable banana bread. Susan’s cakes and breads filled the hearts and homes of those she met, especially during her husband’s time working at Cox Hospital, where the staff were often treated to her delicious creations. She was a faithful employee of Walmart for 30 years.

Susan is survived by her loving husband, Gerald Scurria, who remained by her side through all of life’s challenges. Together they forged a partnership rooted in love, support, and adventure. Susan is also survived by her sister, Karen Sims, Frisco, Texas; her brothers, Glenn (Conna) Perkins, Grove, Oklahoma; Gregg (Tammy) Perkins, Unionville, Missouri.  Susan is preceded in passing by her father, George Perkins and her mother, Artelyn Perkins.

In honor of Susan’s life and the indelible mark she left on all who knew her, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation at Greenlawn Funeral Home East on February 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 p.m. allowing her loved ones to come together, share memories, and celebrate her vibrant spirit. She will then be laid to rest in Monroe, Louisiana.  A Graveside Service will take place on Saturday February 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Mulhearn Memorial Park.

As we come together to honor Susan’s life, let us carry her spirit forward in our hearts, cherishing the lessons she taught us about passion, creativity, and the joy of sharing kindness with others. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will forever remain woven into the fabric of our lives.  In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) or American Heart Association.