Suzanne ‘Susie’ Charles died May 28, 2023 at her home in Phoenix, Arizona. She was born Suzanne Lenny Tilton in September 1965 in Denver, Colorado, the eldest daughter of John L. Tilton and Linda A. Williams.
Susie graduated from Wheatridge High School in Colorado in 1984. She worked hard in both her academics and athletics, graduating as an ambassador in diving, gymnastics and cheerleading.
Susie attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in Prescott, Arizona in 1985 and graduated in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Science. At the time, she was on the list of American college celebrities. ERAU As the first woman to join her flight fellowship program, she enjoyed working as a flight instructor for several years at the university.
Her first job as a commercial airline pilot was in 1993 with Wings West/American Eagle Airlines flying the Swearingen Metroliner and Jetstream 31. She was then hired by West Airlines of America in 1996, where she was trained to fly the Boeing 737 and she the 757. Susie also trained and flew Airbus 319, 320 and 321. Most of her flights were as captain, so everyone who flew with her appreciated her friendly demeanor and professionalism.
After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Susie was the first of many civil aviation pilots to apply for Federal Flight Deck Officer (FFDO) certification. This included extensive firearms and hand-to-hand combat training to protect the flight deck from encroachment. Susie was one of the few women to participate in the FFDO program. Susie received her 25-year badge from American Airlines in 2021.
Susie married her first husband, Jamie Harris, in San Diego, California, in 1995. A daughter, Maria Harris, was born in January 2000. She married Gary Charles of Phoenix in February 2019. Susie and Gary enjoy many hobbies, including fishing, boating, RV trips, and her three dogs.
Susie has parents Linda and Douglas Williams, John Tilton (Prescott, Arizona), Carol Tilton, daughter Maria Harris (Centennial, Colorado), husband Gary Charles and stepdaughter Kayla Charles. (San Diego, Calif.) remains. Her sisters Shelly Hall (Fairfield, Connecticut) and Marie Tilton (Castle Rock, Colorado), her brother Brian Tilton (Chandler, Arizona), her three nieces and one nephew, and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. Everyone deeply shares the loss of her beloved Susie.
An event celebrating Susie’s life is planned for a later date. Donations in Susie’s name can be made to the Yavapai County Humane Society at yavapaihumane.org/donate. Please indicate that your donation is in memory of Susie Charles.
Information provided by family.
