Susan Baldwin

Susan Baldwin, born August 11, 1930 in Watsonville California, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026 in Rio Rico, surrounded by love that spanned the generations she cherished so dearly. Her journey through nearly a century was marked by joy, adventure, laughter, and above all, selfless devotion to her family.

Susan’s legacy shines brightest in those who survive her. Her son, Darryl Gene Johnson, and her daughter, Debbie Lynn Parlar, carry forward the values and warmth she instilled. Her grandchildren—Dwayne Parlar, Cristina Baulnka, Jennifer Parker, and Melissa Johnson—grew up deeply loved and inspired by the stories, wisdom, and traditions Susan so joyfully shared. Her great-grandchildren—Michael Baulnka, Jonathan Baulnka, Jacob Baulnka, Arianna Galaviz, Raelynn Bailey, Islana, and Genevieve Johnson Zagora, Debbie Lyn Parker and husband Dennis Parker—each have sparkling memories of their beloved matriarch. Susan is also survived by her sister, Lupe Moore, whose cherished bond remained strong throughout Susan’s life.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband Gerald Nathan Baldwin, parents Juan and Secundia Vargas, Brothers Bennie Vargas, Jose Vargas, Jessie Vargas, Antonio Vargas, Benito (Margarito) Vargas, Cornelis Vargas, Leonardo Vargas, Sisters Maria Garcia, Guadalupe Diaz, Ascension Sanchez, Modesta Ewers, and 2 More sisters. 

A tapestry of treasured memories comes alive for those who knew Susan best. She found endless happiness in time spent with her family—family holidays were moments of joy and laughter, where her home was filled with the comforting scents of her famous enchiladas and burritos. Susan delighted in preparing meals, always mindful to encourage her loved ones to lead healthy lives. Her encouragement came from a place of love; she cared deeply about the health and happiness of everyone around her.

Susan was a woman of boundless enthusiasm. Making jewelry was one of her artistic passions. She embraced life through movement: basketball and bowling brought her easy camaraderie and laughter, while belly dancing, exercising, riding bikes, and walking filled her days with vitality and grace. Outgoing by nature, Susan brightened every room with her energetic spirit and ready sense of humor. She was a gifted storyteller, and anyone who had the privilege of knowing her was touched by her warmth and charm.

Her adventurous soul took her around the world—she traveled to Iran, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Mexico, Bulgaria, and France. These travels enriched her life and enlivened her stories, each new place a bead in the necklace of her remarkable experiences.

But of all her accomplishments, Susan was proudest of being a loving mother and housewife. Her hands and heart were always open to those in need; her kindness rippled gently through the lives of friends, neighbors, and family alike. She was a steadfast presence—the first to offer help, the last to leave your side.

Susan Baldwin’s light will forever linger in the memories and hearts of all whose lives she touched. Her laughter, love, wisdom, and spirit live on in the countless stories retold by those she loved. Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Susan’s extraordinary life at a Memorial Service on July 2, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Martinez Funeral Chapels - Nogales, 891 W Mariposa Rd, Nogales, AZ 85621. Here, together, we will honor Susan’s beautiful legacy—a legacy built on unwavering love, compassion, and the remarkable gift of making all who knew her feel truly cherished.