Obituary of Susan Kiley Colavita

Susan Kiley Colavita, 74, died at home surrounded by family and close friends, on Tuesday, June 13 after a sudden medical event. Born in South Kingston, RI, her family moved to Ewing Township in the early 1960s. Susan attended Mercer County Community College and Trenton State College (now The College of New Jersey) where she earned a BA in Fine Arts Education. A well-known local artist, Susan was included in exhibitions throughout the area and, with the Eldridge Park Artists participated in art performances in the region. An educator for over 45 years, she taught art in elementary schools in the Trenton Public School District, where she was named Teacher of the Year. Susan was predeceased by her husband Jim Colavita, and her parents Fred and Anna Kiley. She is survived by her siblings, Pam Hoag (Joe Dennison), Fred and Nancy Kiley, Kate Remer (Craig), Deirdre Kiley and Christopher Kiley. She also leaves behind her nephews and nieces, Christian Hoag (Michelle), Elizabeth, Daniel, Kiley and Samantha Remer, Brian Kiley, and Danielle David-Neveaux as well as grandnephew, Michael and grandniece, Siena. Susan is survived by her brother-in-law Anthony “Tojie” Colavita and sister-in-law Marianne Colavita, her children Christian (Ely Colavita), baby Catarina and Courtney Colavita. She saved a special place in her heart for her beloved friends in the Eldridge Park Artists and many others whose close friendships she cherished over the years. Susan had an open heart, childlike wonder and great joy for life. She loved to laugh, was always ready for a road trip, and sharing food, stories and laughter with those she loved. An avid gardener and baker, Susan loved her farm life in Princeton with her late husband Jim, as well as the many dogs, cats, and birds at her home in Ewing. Susan was woven into the fabric of the lives of all who knew and loved her. She will never be forgotten. Visitation for Susan will be held on Sunday, June 18, 2023 from 2-4PM & 6-8PM at Poulson & Van Hise Funeral Directors, 650 Lawrence Road, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648. A memorial celebration will be announced and held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Susan’s memory may be made to EASEL Animal Rescue League, 4 Garzio Drive, Ewing, NJ 08628 or via https://easelnj.dojiggy.com/ad19c18/reg-donate/donate?p=b31a1030#edonate