Susan “Sue Fay” Healy, fondly known as Sue Fay, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at the age of 67, surrounded by her loving family in Ottawa, Canada
Life & Legacy
- Origins & Early Life: Born in Dublin, Ireland, Sue Fay spent her early years immersed in the art of traditional Irish dance. She performed across Europe with a Celtic Dance Company and competed at elite levels, including the World Championships and All-Irelands
- A Passion Shared: In 1989, she founded the Sue Fay Healy School of Irish Dance in Ottawa, establishing it as the city’s premier studio for all ages and levels. Over more than three decades, she guided students from beginners to champions, fostering cultural pride through performance and competition.
- Professional Honors:
- Earned respected credentials as a TCRG instructor and ADCRG adjudicator, reflecting her high standards
- Judged major competitions across North America and Europe, including at the 2011 World Championships in Dublin
- Co-chaired the 2006 Eastern Canadian Oireachtas and chaired the 2007 North American Championships, helping Ottawa shine as a hub of Irish dance
Family & Community
- Family:
- Cherished wife of Fran, her partner for 45 years, whose care was unwavering during her illness
- Devoted mother to Andrew, Francis, and Jennifer, and adored grandmother to her grandchildren
- Community Impact:
- Through her studio, Sue Fay built a close-knit community—supporting events like the Ottawa Rose Centre, local feiseanna, and Irish cultural celebrations
- Praise poured in: “Sue’s memory lives on in the absolutely incredible community she built… We hope the craic is mighty up there!”
Her Lasting Influence
Sue Fay was remembered as a “luminous presence” with “warmth, wit, and authenticity”. Her legacy lives on in:
- The hundreds of dancers she mentored and inspired.
- Ottawa’s thriving Irish dance community.
- The countless cultural events she led and enriched.
As her family’s statement said:
“We are beyond proud of the life she lived and the strength she showed every step of the way.… Her light will live on in all of us—especially in her beloved grandchildren.”
️ Celebration of Life
Plans are underway for a heartwarming celebration honoring Sue Fay’s vibrant spirit—likely full of music, dance, laughter, and Irish cheer. Details will be shared by the family soon
Continuing Her Vision
The Sue Fay Healy School of Irish Dance will remain a cornerstone of Ottawa’s cultural scene—dedicated to her standards of excellence, passion for Irish heritage, and commitment to nurturing young talent
In Summary
Susan “Sue Fay” Healy was a beacon of Irish dance and cultural pride. Her extraordinary life—marked by professional achievement, family devotion, and community leadership—leaves an indelible mark. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the joy, inspiration, and tradition she shared with so many.
