LOS ANGELES — Today, SAG-AFTRA President Gabrielle Carteris released the following statement on the passing of Susan Watanabe, wife of SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director David White:
“It is with deep sadness and regret, as well as joy and gratitude, that we mark the life and transition of Susan Watanabe, the extraordinary wife of David White.
“Susan was a warrior with a gentle soul. Among her many noteworthy contributions to humanity, Susan changed lives as a social worker, community activist and curious spirit whose keen insight ultimately led to a career as a television writer.
“David once said that Susan was the center of good in their universe. Whether reading with their daughter Sophia, or discovering new wonders of joy with David, she was a towering presence of love and comfort. She was also a woman of uncommon grace whose serene countenance hid a tremendous sense of humor.
“Her presence will be missed, but her brilliant light will never dim.
“On behalf of our membership and staff, I send our love and condolences to David and Sophia, their family and friends.
“Rest in peace and power Susan.”
Susan Watanabe, Writer and Political and Community Activist Leader, Dies at 49
LOS ANGELES (Aug. 27, 2018) – Susan Elizabeth Watanabe, a television writer, community leader and political activist, passed away on Sunday of a brain tumor, it was announced today by her family. Watanabe was a successful writer for such popular televisions series as Girlfriends and One-on-One, among other projects, and well-known in Los Angeles for her prolific support and fundraising for progressive candidates and causes, new authors, young professionals and community groups.
She is survived by her husband David White, SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director; their 9-year-old daughter Sophia; her parents Don and Ida Watanabe; and brother Scott.
In addition to her career as a television writer, Watanabe was a sought-after ally and strategist who supported the candidacies of numerous Los Angeles City Council members, as well as African-American candidates in the Midwest and South. Locally Watanabe served as president of two Los Angeles neighborhood associations in the communities in which she and her husband lived.
Known for her humor and lively commentary on people, politics and pop culture, she and White married in 2000. She committed her life to writing, supporting causes, and mentoring young people. She was happiest when with family and friends, especially her daughter, Sophia, who, in her words, anchored her in the thrill and wonder of motherhood, and deepened her commitment to make the world a safer and more humane village for the next generation.
Born October 20, 1968 in Chicago, Watanabe attended Whitney M. Young Magnet High School and later attended the University of Illinois. Following that, she earned a graduate degree from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, where she was elected president of the student union.
The date for her memorial service will be Saturday, Sept. 15 at 11 a.m., in the Hall of Liberty at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Susan's Circle, a foundation established by friends in her name and housed within the Liberty Hill Foundation.
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SAG-AFTRA represents approximately 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, news editors, program hosts, puppeteers, recording artists, singers, stunt performers, voiceover artists and other entertainment and media professionals. SAG-AFTRA members are the faces and voices that entertain and inform America and the world. A proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO, SAG-AFTRA has national offices in Los Angeles and New York and local offices nationwide representing members working together to secure the strongest protections for entertainment and media artists into the 21st century and beyond. Visit SAG-AFTRA online at SAGAFTRA.org.
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