Susan Hiddle, 72, of Paris, Illinois, passed away on Monday, December 15th, 2025.

A lifelong native of Paris and a graduate of Paris High School, Susan dedicated her life to music and education. She was a distinguished educator for 35 years, retiring in 2011 after a career that touched the lives of countless students in Illinois.

Susan received her Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Eastern Illinois University. She went on to earn her Master of Arts degree from EIU, with a focus on Instrumental Music, Conducting, and Flute Performance.

Her teaching career began at Cumberland High School in Greenup, Illinois, where she served as Director of Music and Director of Bands for 13 years. She spent the final 22 years of her career teaching in the Paris, Illinois school system. At the time of her retirement, she served as the Director of Vocal Music for grades 6 through 12 and the Director of the Mayo Middle School 6th Grade Band. She also previously held the positions of Assistant Band Director and Director of Bands at Paris High School.

Susan was a pillar of the music community beyond the classroom. She was an active leader in the Illinois Music Educators Association, serving as the Senior Representative for the Senior Choral Division. Her excellence in teaching was recognized when she was named a top 10 finalist for the WTHI-TV Golden Apple Award. She was also a featured honoree in Who’s Who Among American Teachers for 12 years.

A talented musician in her own right, Susan was a past member and piccolo soloist for the Terre Haute Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. She remained deeply involved in her local community throughout her life, serving as the Director of the Paris City Band and as the organist and choir director for the First United Methodist Church in Paris.

Susan leaves behind a loving circle of family and friends. She is survived by her nephew, Brian Lind; her nieces, Tammy Lind, Heather Wessel (Greg), and Christina Holmes (Tim). She was also a loving great-aunt to Lena Wessel, Aria Wessel and Jason Holmes. She was also loved by her dear friend, Susan Ferris.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Irma Hiddle; her sister, Carol Lind (Stanley); and her brother, David Hiddle.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 16th at the First United Methodist Church in Paris, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM.

For more information and online condolences please visit www.stewartandcarrollfuneralhome.com