Susan Kathleen Cain, 53, of Galena, IL, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Midwest Medical Center in Galena. A celebration of life will be held at 4 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, with friends invited to gather after 2 PM until the time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date. She was born April 28, 1972, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Terrence and Lauren (Pease) Parsons. Susan graduated from Galena High School and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, creative writing, and literature from Loras College in Dubuque, graduating Cum Laude. She worked as a freelance graphic designer. She married Matthew Cain on April 21, 2021. She is survived by her husband, Matthew; a daughter, Lily Belle; four brothers, Mike, Kevin, Chris, and Terrence Parsons; and many nieces and nephews, including great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents. In memory of Susan, consider placing a birdhouse or a bench on a nature trail, or making a donation to your local animal shelter.
Susan K. Cain
We were very saddened to hear this news. Mike and I are sending prayers and comfort to the family during this difficult time. May Susan rest in peace.
Susan was a graphic designer on our staff at Clarke University. I always appreciated her creativity and willingness to try new ideas in pursuit of recruiting students. She was quirky in the best way, positive, and talented. Wishing strength and peace to her family.
MY sincerest condolences to Susan’s family. She was a couple years behind me in school, but always loved seeing her smile at school. She made going to school a lot brighter, always positive, cheerful and one of the friendliness students i ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Very saddened to hear of Susan’s passing. I worked with her briefly, and she was so fun, kind and smart. Sending condolences and love to the Cain family. A donation has been made to Safe Haven in her name.