Susan Ruth Sheppard

Susan Ruth Sheppard (née Schewitz), a trailblazing professional and loving mother, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, in Los Angeles at the age of 67. Born on September 21, 1957, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Susan’s life was defined by her boundless talent, intellect, and unwavering dedication to her family and career.

After her parents moved from South Africa to the United States when Susan was a child, her early years were marked by her passion for the performing arts. After graduating from the University of Michigan, she pursued her dreams on the stages of New York City, where she became a Broadway actress, appearing in the Broadway production and national tours of “Fiddler on the Roof”, “Grease”, and others. During a revival of the musical "They’re Playing Our Song" at Manhattan's Equity Library Theater, Susan met her husband, musician Terrance “Terry” Kawles. Inspired by a love for creativity and determination, they both pursued law degrees to transition from a career in the arts into careers as entertainment and intellectual property attorneys.

Susan’s legal career spanned over three decades, during which she earned a reputation as a brilliant and compassionate legal mind. She held numerous senior legal and business affairs positions in the entertainment industry, including Vice President and Head of Business Affairs at Crunchyroll, Senior Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs at Warner Bros./DC Entertainment, Senior Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs at RHI Entertainment, and Vice President of Legal and Business Affairs at Lifetime Television. Her leadership and expertise were instrumental in shaping the business and legal strategies for some of the most influential organizations in the entertainment industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Susan cherished her role as a mother. She raised two exceptional children, Ryan Sheppard Kawles and Allegra Sheppard Kawles, who inherited her creative and intellectual spirit. Susan’s family was her greatest joy, and she was their unwavering source of love, wisdom, and strength.

Susan’s legacy is one of inspiration and grace. Her colleagues will remember her as a dedicated and insightful professional, her friends as a compassionate and vibrant presence, and her family as their cherished anchor.

She is survived by her husband, Terry Kawles, her children, Ryan and Allegra, parents Lionel and Sheila Schewitz, brother David (MaryBeth) Schewitz, sister Gail (Bruce) Doctor, and countless friends, colleagues, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Over 4 years, she battled cancer with a toughness, grace, and dignity that inspired all who knew her and encountered her within the medical community. She touched the lives of the countless professionals who treated her and will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Susan’s remarkable life will be held in New York at a later date. Please include your

contact information HERE (https://shorturl.at/BbnSA) to receive updates on this celebration.

Instead of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to Maltese Rescue California (https://shorturl.at/KNgz1) in her honor.

Rest in peace, Susan. Your light will continue to shine in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know you.