Curiosity Never Retires: Susan Moore
Susan Moore has never been someone to stand still. Throughout her life, she’s embraced new opportunities, explored new interests, and found purpose in serving others. Whether raising a family, working in environmental policy, writing a book, or now helping shape life at Rappahannock Westminster-Canterbury (RWC), Susan believes there’s always something new to learn.
“I’ve never been a black-and-white person,” Susan said. “I’m more of a gray person. I can see both sides of an issue.”
A Career Rooted in Curiosity
Originally from Weston, Massachusetts, Susan earned a degree in economics before eventually joining the Environmental Protection Agency. There, her interests in public affairs and the environment came together as she worked across water quality, air quality, and recycling programs.
That same curiosity has followed her throughout life. Susan enjoys trying new things, from watercolor painting to writing. One of her proudest accomplishments came after discovering a box of family letters dating back to 1904. Those letters eventually inspired her book, The Tip Top Letters.
“It was something I never expected to do,” Susan said. “If I hadn’t found those letters, I would have just written down family stories. Instead, I found an amazing love story.”
Finding a New Chapter at RWC
Years later, Susan and her husband found another chapter waiting for them closer to home.
After spending more than 30 years in Wicomico Church, they began thinking about simplifying. They considered moving closer to family but ultimately realized they didn’t have to leave the community and relationships they already loved.
“We considered moving back to Washington or to Raleigh where family lived,” she said. “Then we realized RWC was right here. We could stay with our friends, keep going to the same church, and stay involved in the organizations we loved.”
One of the first things Susan noticed at RWC was the welcoming atmosphere.
“You can’t walk around here without someone saying, ‘Good morning’ or ‘Have a good day,'” she said. “It felt right.”
A College Campus for a Different Age Group
Susan describes RWC as “a college campus for a different age group,” where residents can continue learning, staying active, building friendships, and contributing their talents.
Not long after moving in, Susan was asked to serve as President of the Residents’ Association—a role that aligned naturally with her lifelong interest in civic engagement.
“There is a lot of talent in this resident population,” Susan said. “People have spent entire careers solving problems, and I think that knowledge can be an incredible asset.”
Today, Susan enjoys Great Decisions discussions, exercise classes with her husband, Pub Night, community events, and the many opportunities to remain involved.
Advice for Future Residents
For anyone considering RWC, her advice is rooted in what she has experienced herself.
“It’s mentally stimulating, physically stimulating, and rewarding,” she said. “It’s friendly, it’s manageable in size, and there are incredible opportunities to stay engaged.”
Susan’s story is a reminder that retirement isn’t about stepping away from life. It can be an opportunity to keep learning, contributing, connecting, and discovering what comes next.
