Susan Vener Linsky, a longtime public servant and civic leader in Washington, D.C., died at her home on August 8, 2026. She was 77.

A 3rd generation Texan, Susan was the daughter of Marcy and Alvin Vener (z’’l). She grew up in Corpus Christi, is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and later earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Houston. After graduate school, Susan moved to Washington, D.C., where she met and married her beloved husband, Norm. They raised their family in their adopted hometown together.

Susan built a distinguished career in D.C. politics and civic life. She served as campaign manager for Councilmember Polly Shackleton’s re-election campaign in 1978. From 1986 to 1994, she was Chief of Staff to Councilmember James Nathanson. Throughout her career, she worked to strengthen the city’s economic development and philanthropic community through the D.C. Chamber of Commerce and Greater DC Cares.

From 2000 to 2006, Susan served as Special Assistant to the Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development, where she played a major role in the revitalization of the District. Working alongside Mayor Anthony Williams, Deputy Mayor Eric Price, and others, she was instrumental in bringing Major League Baseball back to Washington, D.C. — she instantly became one of their most loyal fans and season ticket holders at Nationals Park in the years that followed (including attending every 2019 home postseason game!).

Susan was a key member of the team behind CityMarket at O, the Hodge on 7th, and the largest grocery store in D.C. — projects that energized the Shaw community, with a particular focus on workforce development and care for the aging. She found meaning in ensuring quality housing and grocery amenities would be available to community members across income levels.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan was deeply devoted to community service. She volunteered extensively with Murch Elementary School, served as HSA President of School Without Walls, and was Vice President of the Avalon Theatre Board of Directors. She also served as secretary of the board of directors for Shaw Main Streets, sat on the board of directors for Iona Senior Services, and contributed to Van Ness Main Streets. She was a creative force who was dedicated to bettering her community.

During the Covid pandemic and beyond, though Susan began retiring more completely from her public and community involvement, her joy continued to be time spent with family and loving friends who faithfully visited.

Susan is survived by her husband Norm, her daughter Arielle (Kevin) and son Zachary (Leah), three grandchildren, her sister, Sally, two brothers, David and Ellis, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were like family. She was predeceased by her son, Adam (z’’l).

Susan’s wish was to remain at home, and her husband lovingly ensured this wish was fulfilled. The family is very grateful to Susan’s caretakers, especially Selam Minda and Capital Caring Health hospice for helping ensure Norm could keep her comfortable and safe at home in her final years.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to support one of Susan's favorite places in DC, the Avalon Theater, which brings joy and energy to the city she gave so much to: https://www.theavalon.org/

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 11:00 am, at Adas Israel Congregation, Washington, D.C. Interment will follow at Adas Israel Congregation Cemetery. Please find the link to the streamed service, here. 

Services entrusted to Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Goldberg Funeral Care.