Suzann P. Tierney, 79

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Suzann P. Tierney, a woman of remarkable strength, determination, and grace, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, in Omaha, Neb., just days after celebrating her 79th birthday. She leaves behind a legacy defined by tireless dedication, deep love for her family, and an enduring spirit that shone through even life’s most difficult challenges.

Born on May 16, 1946, in Onawa, Suzann grew up in a large farm family where resources were modest, but values ran deep. From an early age, she learned to be grateful for every blessing, big or small. That gratitude was paired with a strong work ethic. With determination, she poured herself into every task, building a life defined by hard work and tenacity. The values she learned in her early years became the foundation of her success and character.

She graduated from West Harrison High School in 1964, and pursued her education at Dana College and the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. On June 7, 1969, she married Dr. Michael Tierney, and together they built a life filled with purpose, laughter, and unwavering partnership.

In 1976, Suzann and Mike founded the Omaha Animal Hospital. While Dr. Tierney cared for the animals, Suzann ran the heart of the practice, managing the day-to-day operations, greeting every client with genuine warmth, and making sure the clinic ran with seamless efficiency. Though she often stayed behind the scenes, those who knew the clinic knew that Suzann was its steady hand and driving force.

In her later years, Suzann faced a slow decline due to Alzheimer’s disease. Though the progression was gradual, she continued to meet each day with resilience with Mike by her side. Throughout it all, her family was blessed to see glimpses of the woman they knew so well, a knowing smile, a soft laugh, a familiar expression. Her essence remained, shining quietly beneath the surface, reminding them of the strength and love she had always given so freely.

Suzann is survived by her loving husband of nearly 56 years, Michael Tierney; son Travis; son Chadd and wife Kari with their children Owen and Cael; son Brent and wife Kelli with their children Jack and Emma. She was preceded in death by her father, Johnny A. Wallis; her mother, Sybil P. Wallis (Edwards); her sisters, Merry Green and Norma Turner; her brothers, Malvern, Milton, and Virgil; and her beloved grandchildren, Katherine and Isabelle.

She will be remembered not only for her tireless work and quiet strength but also for her deep love of family, her ability to find joy in life’s simple and grand moments alike, and her unwavering spirit that endured until the very end.

Visitation was Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha.

Funeral Service was Friday, May 30, First Christian Church, 6630 Dodge Street, Omaha, 68132.

Interment and graveside service at Hazel Dell Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association.

To view a live broadcast of the service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the "Live Cast" button at the top of the home page.