Documentary Film - Playing with Heart
North County Special Needs Community Foundation
On November 25, 2023, Sue passed away peacefully at home. Her dedication, support
and concern for others will be missed.
On February 17, 2024, family and 100 friends gathered at the Mickey Cafagna Center in Poway to celebrate Sue's life and service to the community of Poway. Her favorite comfort foods were served, listening to her favorite Neil Diamond songs, friends reflected on her true dedication to helping others and sang "Sweet Caroline to close the service.
Sue Herndon
Sue began her real estate sales career in San Diego County in 1985 and has lived in Poway since 1977. Professionally, Sue has been named one of the top 10 Real Estate agents in the nation many times.
She has been an active participant in numerous community service activities and non-profit organizations, including serving on the Toby Wells Foundation Board, the Business Council for the Poway Center for the Performing Arts Foundation and is a member of the Rancho Bernardo Sunrise Rotary Club, and was a member of the Rotary Club of Poway. In addition, Sue served as the Fundraising Chair for the 2011 Poway Patriotic Parade attended by over 10,000 people. Sue also served nine years on the Board of Directors for the Palomar Health Foundation.
In addition to her successful career, Sue raised triplets and still found time to be an active member of the Poway community. She also found time to be an active PTA member in Poway schools for 12 years and was a founder of the High School Grad Night program in 1989 and originator of the Rancho Bernardo Rotary Toys for Tots drive.
For the last ten years, Sue has spent much time and effort assisting special needs kids and adults in furthering their education and housing opportunities. She was one of the Jack O Smash Fundraising Event founders, which included a 5K run with a celebrity softball game and festival event, which raised over $70,000 for special needs programs in Poway.
Sue played an integral part in the city and county approvals and participation in developing the Villa de Vida 53-unit apartment complex in Poway for Adults with Special Needs.
When not busy with her community involvement, Sue loves spending time with her grandchildren and planning “special vacations” for the family.
