Points Along the Way
An understated chronology of Susan's life — family, faith, ministry, and the moments that shaped her. Filter by category to follow a single thread of her story.
1947 · Family
Born in Bell, California
Susan Kay Reece was born May 19, 1947 at Bell Mission Hospital, to Steven and Dorothy Reece.
1979 · Faith
Surrendered her life to Jesus
Reading Revelation 21:1-4, Susan encountered God's promise to wipe away every tear. She surrendered her life to Christ and became a new woman.
1985 · NEWIM
Founded NEWIM
Susan founded the Network of Evangelical Women in Ministry to encourage, equip, and connect women in ministry.
1986 · John
Santa Barbara & Halley's Comet
Susan and John wandered onto a nudist beach in conversation, then watched Halley's Comet together — a once-in-a-lifetime moment with 'my honey.'
— · Ministry
Director of Women's Ministry, Calvary Church Santa Ana
Susan served as Director of Women's Ministry, teaching Scripture and discipling women.
— · Chosen Women
Chosen Women & the Rose Bowl
Susan founded and led Chosen Women Events. The Rose Bowl gathering remained one of her proudest ministry memories.
2018 · John
John's death
John J. Kimes died on November 12, 2018, after more than fifty years of marriage.
Final Years · Grandchildren
Life-giving season with family
Susan lived with Jason, Ariana, Kenley, Reece, and Hudson — a season she described as life-giving.
2026 · Giving
Auntie Susie's Legacy in Uganda
Susan's generosity helped Hanan Medical Services reach 1,027 lives in Q3 2026. Her story is now woven into their stories.
2026 · Faith
The last day
The day before she died, Susan was still encouraging her nurse and sent her family to buy gift cards for the nurse's children.