On October 15, 2023, the world lost a beloved icon when Suzanne Somers passed away at her home, surrounded by her family. The beloved actress from Three’s Company fought a courageous battle with breast cancer for over two decades. Throughout her life, Suzanne was a devoted mother, stepmom, and wife, all while maintaining a deep connection to her Catholic faith and a career that spanned decades. Her legacy is one of resilience, love, and unwavering belief in something greater than herself.

The Role of Faith in Suzanne Somers’ Life

Growing up in an Irish-American Catholic family, Suzanne Somers was deeply rooted in her faith from a young age. Years after her mother’s passing, the author of Knockout penned a heartfelt tribute to her, reflecting on the profound influence her upbringing had on her life. Suzanne often spoke about how her mother instilled in her a sense of faith and hope that carried her through the toughest times.

In a touching post on Facebook in May 2016, Suzanne shared her mother's legacy. “She believed in her faith and her Catholic religion with all her heart, and prayed for all of us to have happy lives,” Suzanne wrote. “Because of her prayers, my sister, my brother, and myself are living lives filled with passion and happiness.” Suzanne’s faith was not just a part of her childhood—it became the foundation of her adult life as well.

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Before finding fame, Suzanne married her first husband, Bruce Somers, in 1965. The couple welcomed their son, Bruce Somers Jr., that same year. Though their marriage ended after three years, Suzanne's dedication to her family remained strong. Her faith became a guiding force during the ups and downs of her personal and professional life.

As Suzanne faced multiple health challenges, including her ongoing battle with cancer, her faith was her anchor. In an interview with Woman’s World, she opened up about her relationship with God. “I have a deep, personal connection with God,” she explained. “Every day, I pray, and I feel His presence in return. Nature speaks to me in ways that remind me He’s always here. Last month, a herd of bighorn sheep appeared on our desert property. It felt like a sacred moment, and every time I see them now, my heart fills with gratitude. That was God reaching out to me.”

Suzanne’s Journey Through Adversity

In 2020, Suzanne faced another challenge when she suffered a severe fall at home. The accident left her with serious injuries, including fractures to her neck, spine, hip, pelvis, and knee. Despite the pain and long recovery, Suzanne remained optimistic. In an April 2023 interview with Closer, she shared her determination to heal. “It’s been over a year of pain and recovery,” she said. “I’m not fully back yet, but I know I’ll be okay.”

Suzanne leaned heavily on her husband, Alan Hamel, and her faith during this difficult period. “Recovery has been a long road,” she admitted. “I had to go to rehab to relearn how to walk. But I did it! Every hardship presents an opportunity to find the good. Through this, I’ve learned so much about gratitude. I’ve connected with God in ways I never imagined possible.”

Suzanne Somers wears green satin dress and carries purse — Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic

Suzanne’s Final Battle

In July 2023, Suzanne took to Instagram to share with her fans that her breast cancer had returned. With characteristic bravery, she wrote, “As you know, I had breast cancer two decades ago, and every now and then it pops up again. But I keep fighting it. I’ve used both alternative and conventional treatments to combat it. This isn’t new territory for me. I know how to put on my battle gear, and I’m a fighter.”

Tragically, just one day before her 77th birthday, Suzanne lost her battle with cancer. Her passing was announced by her longtime publicist, R. Couri Hay, who shared a heartfelt statement. “Suzanne Somers passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of October 15th. She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years,” the statement read. “Suzanne was surrounded by her loving husband, Alan, her son, Bruce, and her immediate family. Her family had planned to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th. Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life and thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her deeply.”