Retired first grade teacher and reading tutor Susan Rokus of Loudoun County, Virginia, succumbs to coronavirus.

The professional community is mourning the loss of yet another educator who has been lost to the coronavirus. Retired teacher and reading tutor Susan Rokus of Loudoun County, Virginia, passed away on March 25, 2020. She was 73 years old.

Susan inaugurated her career as an educator in 1969 when she accepted a position as a first-grade teacher for Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS). During her career, she served at the old Arcola Elementary School, Little River, Liberty, and Pinebrook elementary schools. She retired in 2014. In retirement, Susan continued to serve her students as a part-time tutor for struggling readers. She tutored at two elementary schools in her district.

Susan was revered by those who knew her. “She is someone who poured her whole self into contributing to our community,” recalled LCPS Superintendent Eric Williams. In fact, just last year, Susan was recognized by Little River Principal Kevin Murphy as one of the core leaders of the school when it first opened 20 years ago.

Parent Rachel Hill shared memories on Facebook of her friendship with the fallen teacher. Hill remembered the days her son was a student in Susan’s class, going on class field trips together, and walking around the running track at a school together. “I will also never forget her spunk and sense of style,” Hill wrote. “That woman loved to dress and always looked stunning. She reminded me of my grandmother with her love for clothes and fashion and shopping.” Susan also had a reputation for her flare for distinctive decor, especially the leopard-print chair, shaped like a stiletto, that she kept for years at the front of her classroom.

“Her heart was so big. I’m not sure she realized how many children she helped,” wrote mourner Lisa Mitchell. Paul Pack, Principal of Liberty Elementary agreed.  “Her legacy in Loudoun is unlike anything I’ve ever seen because it’s generational,” he remarked.

To read about other educators who have succumbed to the coronavirus, see this article at Education Week.