Susan DeCapria-Benitez

Albany Times Union February 12, 2010

ALBANY -- Susan DeCapria-Benitez, 39, died in her home on Thursday, February 9, 2010. Susan, a "Native Albanian," was known as an animal lover and, much to her family's chagrin, had brought more than 30 stray animal's home throughout her very short life.

Although she had suffered mental illness since childhood, everyone who has came into contact with her saw her as a generous and compassionate soul. Her illness was a gift that made her far more empathetic, and kind towards others than anyone could dream to be.

Although, admittedly, she was finicky about her food, and had an uncanny obsession with sneakers, and anything to do with Harley Davidson, if she had five dollars in her pocket to last her a week, she would have lent it to a stranger on the street without a moment's thought.

"Susie-cutie" (as she was known) left behind many broken hearts - but believing she has found the peace in death she so desperately begged for in life will help her family and friends get though this tragedy one day at a time.

Susan is survived by her mother, Josephine (Jody) Benitez of Colonie; her father, Joseph DeCapria of Lock Haven, Pa.; sister, Aimee DeCapria of Los Angeles, Calif.; and a myriad of friends and family that could fill this entire page.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at the Tebbutt and Frederick Memorial Home, 633 Central Ave., Albany. Relatives and friends are also invited to call Saturday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Our Lady of Angles, Colonie. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the National Alliance of the Mentally Ill, 260 Washington Ave., Albany, NY 12210.

Susan, we love you and will forever hold you in our hearts, minds, and souls until the day we are blessed to see your shining beautiful smile again. You can finally rest in peace, our sweet loving angel.