Susan Ann Carns, of Ahrensville, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, with her daughter Rebecca by her side, after a week surrounded by constant love and support from her family and many dear friends.

Born on October 22, 1948, Susan was the daughter of the late Kathryn Eileen McGreevy and John Edward Hynes.

A 1966 graduate of Venango Christian High School, Susan went on to work at Northwest Savings Bank and later Mellon Bank. She was also a small business owner alongside her husband, Robert Henry Carns, with whom she owned and operated Movie Magic in Oil City for many years. Robert, whom she married in January 1996, preceded her in death in July 2022.

Susan defined resilience. Though her life was not without hardship, she remained one of the most giving and positive people anyone could meet. Her strength, bravery, and dignity throughout years of battling multiple illnesses were truly awe-inspiring. She carried herself with grace, often shielding others from the weight of her struggles, choosing instead to uplift those around her.

She loved deeply and without condition. Susan taught those around her to cherish life’s beautiful moments and to persevere through the difficult ones. She believed in surrounding yourself with love, making the most of what life offers, and leaving every person better than you found them. A guiding light to so many, she was always ready with a smile, a compliment, or a word of encouragement—no matter how small the interaction, her impact was lasting.

She embraced life fully—through her unmistakable spirit, her love of her signature hats, and the warmth she brought into every room.

She was the oldest of seven children and is survived by her beloved siblings: Jeannie Towell; Kathryn Smith (Scott); John Hynes; Robert Hynes; Edward Hynes (Patty); and Joseph Hynes.

Susan was a devoted and loving mother to Daniel Detrich; Michael Detrich (Jodi); Rebecca White (Shawn); Ben Carns (Bree); and Craig Carns. While she would jokingly admit that others may have been grateful not to have raised her spirited children, she loved them fiercely and unconditionally—a love that never wavered.

She was a proud grandmother to Shaun, Jared (Skyla), Ayden, Kaitlin, Abigail, and Michael Jr., and a great-grandmother to Paislee, each of whom brought her immense joy.

Susan is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: Eric (Amy), Jason, Robbie (Hannah), Katie (John), Jacob (Christina), Clinton, Allison, Sean, and Tim (Kristie), all of whom she loved dearly.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who showed Susan love and support throughout her life, especially over the past four years. She appreciated each and every one of you, spoke of you often, and loved you dearly. A special thank you to everyone at the Dialysis Clinic in Cranberry, PA, and to Lisa Winger, Ashley, Amber, and Staci of AseraCare Hospice, who cared for Susan and showed the family grace during her final days.

In her own words, Susan leaves us with this message:

“Thank you for sharing in my life. Keep others in your heart, as I kept you all in mine. Don’t ever question your worth - you’re amazing. I know heaven seems far away, but I’m closer than you think, I promise. Help others, smile at everyone, and give compliments every chance you get. Most of all, don’t ever give up. Always keep kindness in your heart. Let the beauty of the world surround you and uplift you. Do your best and make something amazing out of your life. Never stop smiling. Look for joy. Sing at the top of your lungs—don’t ever just mouth the words. I love you all so very much, and I wish you the very best of days.”

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Huff-Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 West Park St., Franklin, where family and friends are invited to celebrate Susan’s life from 5:00 — 7:00 P.M. on Thursday and from 12:00 — 1:00 P.M. Friday.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Friday in the funeral home chapel with David McVay, officiating.

Online condolences may be sent to Susan's family by visiting huffguthrie.com