Susan Kay Davis—a name not widely known, but one that carried immense meaning for so many. Most people knew her as Susan O'Donnell, a warm and vibrant voice that became a beloved part of our lives through KSBJ.

Susan went home to the Lord on January 18th.

Whether she was the friend you had coffee with in the morning, the companion during your commute, or the cheerful co-pilot after a long night shift, Susan's presence made every moment brighter. She left us smiling, laughing, singing, and sometimes even rolling our eyes—but always feeling more connected.

For years, The Morning Show with Buddy Holiday and Susan O'Donnell was a staple for KSBJ listeners. When Buddy retired in 1999, Susan carried the torch, teaming up with a host of talented partners over the years, including Brant Hansen, Dave Cruse, and Mike Kanklefritz. Through these transitions, her spirit and humor remained the heart of the show.

I had the privilege of working alongside Susan on many remote broadcasts, and each experience was a testament to her quick wit and big heart.

One morning, we were live from Greenspoint Mall, broadcasting from the iconic KSBJ van. Listeners showed up, and Susan decided to give them a show they’d never forget. That day, Beth Moore (of Beth Moore Bible Study fame) was a guest, and Susan convinced her to compete in a watermelon seed-spitting contest. It was a hilarious and spirited competition—and though Susan was a fierce competitor, I’m pretty sure Beth took the crown that day.

Another unforgettable memory was during a live broadcast at Walmart. We had technical issues with the van's antenna, so I climbed on top to fix it while Susan stayed on-air. Unfortunately, I slipped and fell flat on my back. It scared Susan so much that she banned me from climbing on the van ever again! Moments like these defined working with Susan: unpredictable, full of laughter, and always infused with her genuine care for others.

Susan was always having fun on the air but her true passion was to use her platform at KSBJ, and anywhere else she went, to share the light and love of Jesus. She was a gifted speaker and her transparency allowed her to connect deeply with hurting people, making sure to guide them to the Lord. 

Susan was a devoted single mother who raised two incredible daughters. They’ve grown into remarkable women, with families of their own, carrying forward the love and values Susan instilled in them. Her family was her greatest pride, and she spoke of them often and with immense joy.

In recent years, she faced significant health challenges, including strokes that took away her ability to speak. Knowing Susan, I can imagine that was tough for her because she still had so much to say! Even in the face of such struggles, her legacy of love, humor, and encouragement endured.

Susan O'Donnell was one of a kind. She loved fiercely, forgave generously, and poured her heart into every relationship—with friends, family, and listeners. Her voice and laughter might be silent now, but her spirit continues to echo in the lives she touched.

As she signs off one last time, we remember her words:

“When your Daddy God sings, it’s time for you to dance… You are loved.”

Rest in peace, Susan. You are deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

_{Thanks to my sweet wife, Leitha, and Morgan from the Afternoon Show for helping me write about our friend. I appreciate you both. - Bill Ingram}

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