Harriet (Smith) Olsen
November 4, 1938 – December 10, 2025
Harriet “Sue” Elizabeth (Smith) Olsen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025, after a brief illness. She was 87 years old.
Born in Brooklyn, New York on November 4, 1938, to William W. and Harriette Gillette Smith, Sue grew up in Haddam Neck, where she spent most of her life. She graduated from East Hampton High School in 1956 and soon after married her high school sweetheart, Walter Olsen, in 1958. Together, they built their family home in Haddam Neck, completing it in 1960.
Sue’s life was defined by her love of nature, creativity, and her commitment to community. She raised a wide variety of animals — from goats and chinchillas to her cherished flocks of chickens — and tended her greenhouse and gardens with joy, always eager to try new plant varieties. A gifted knitter and crocheter, she created mittens, sweaters, scarves, and afghans that warmed generations of family and friends. As a founding member of the Haddam Neck Quilters, she welcomed visitors at the annual quilt show and, alongside Walt, crafted wooden items for fairs and gifts. Sue also served as director and president of the Haddam Neck Fair, helping to shape a tradition cherished by her community.
Her compassion extended into her professional life. Inspired by her work on the Middletown ambulance in the 1970s, Sue earned her LPN license and devoted 25 years to night shifts at Middlesex Hospital. After retiring, she continued to give back, volunteering at Brainerd Library and assisting the town of Haddam during elections.
Sue is survived by her children Deborah (Bradley), Barbara, and David (Sandy); daughter-in-law, Ellen; grandchildren Michael (Jennifer), Jared (Emily), Cassie, Sarah, MacKenzie (Mark), Connor, Cameron (Sara), Ian, Jessica, and Angelina; and great-grandchildren Mikayla, Mia, Miles, Ivy, and Wrenleigh. She also leaves behind her sisters Franky, June, Louise, and Gail, her brother Peter, and their families. She was predeceased by her parents, her daughter Mary, her son Paul, and her brother William (“Jig”).
A memorial service will be held at Haddam Neck Congregational Church on Saturday, January 17, 2026at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haddam Neck Congregational Church, Brainerd Memorial Library, or Middlesex Hospice.
Sue’s legacy of kindness, creativity, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
