Tributes continue to come in for Brighton restaurateur Sue Addis, who was found dead at her home in the city earlier this month.
The Argus’s online book of condolence has been flooded with messages about the much-loved owner of Donatello and Pinocchio, who was also a charity stalwart and supporter of many causes. Among them are the moving words from a former homeless man, John Carey, who said she always found time to speak to him.
Writer and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe.
“I just loved Sue. Funny, gregarious and so generous. Whenever there was a charity that needed money or a campaign for the city that needed support Sue was the one to ask.
“How many glasses of prosecco have I drunk with Sue plotting and planning!
“She gave the restaurant its feel of warmth, welcome and incredible success.
“Love to her sons Leo, Stefano and Mikele and their families. This is a huge loss for Brighton, but a far larger one for them.
“There is a terrible Sue-shaped hole left in Brighton.”
Dawn Sweeney, former Argus managing director and chairwoman of The Argus Appeal.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened at the dreadful news of Sue’s passing in such shocking circumstances.
“I had the privilege of working closely with Sue during my time in Brighton chairing The Argus Appeal.
“She went out of her way to welcome me into the Brighton business family.
“She was a generous and thoughtful lady with a big heart.
“A deep loss to everyone who knew or came into contact with her. My condolences to her family and friends.
“RIP Sue.”
John Carey said: “To Sue, I used to sit on the lane when I was homeless. Every time Sue walked by I would always say hello.
“Sue would stop and ask me how I am, she was a kind-hearted soul and always shared her warmth, she never walked by and ignored me.
“I am truly saddened with what has happened to a person whose smile and personality always made me feel human.
“Thank you Sue for never ignoring me, I will sadly miss you as I’m sure a lot of people will.
“From Scottish John (previous homeless person who sat in the lane). You will be missed so much.”
Brighton secondary schools
Sue is pictured with youngsters from Dorothy Stringer School’s PE department, which Donatello sponsored
“The secondary school headteachers of the city are devastated to hear news of Sue Addis’s tragic death.
“Sue was a prominent fundraiser for numerous charities and was hugely supportive to local schools and her presence and friendship will be sorely missed.
“Sue’s generosity and hospitality has touched the lives of thousands of students, from team meals spent at Donatello to her generous donations as well.
“Her passion and drive to help others has undoubtedly had an impact on the many students over the years throughout the city.
“Our heartfelt condolences and thoughts go to the family at this difficult time.”
Paul Johnston, owner of BG Finishings and semi-professional musician
“May I add my words of support to your tribute to the much-liked and respected Sue Addis.
“I thought your editorial was very appropriate and perfectly reflected what a loss to Brighton and Hove the sad death of Sue will make.
“Not only was Sue a successful businesswoman, she wanted to ‘put back’ into the local community and was a tireless supporter of The Argus Appeal.
“I had met Sue a number of times over the years, not only in one of her restaurants but a number of Argus events and she was always friendly and engaging.
“I cannot believe I was only chatting with her in Meeting House Lane just before Christmas and discussing difficulties for restaurants under the current Covid climate.
“A great loss to our community. You will be missed, Sue.”
Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice
Sue is pictured at the handover of a funds for a new bed
“We are all incredibly shocked and saddened to hear the tragic news about Sue Addis.
“Sue has been a great supporter of Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice for many years, helping the charity in various ways – from holding fundraising events to helping behind the scenes.
“She was an inspirational individual at the heart of the Brighton community and will be greatly missed.
“On behalf of everyone at Chestnut Tree House, our thoughts remain with Sue’s family and friends.”
Former Brighton MP David Lepper and his wife Jeanne, a former Brighton mayor
“We were shocked and saddened to hear of Sue’s death.
“For over 30 years she has been such a vital part of the city’s life working for local charities, especially those working with homeless people, for the Albion, the Festival and much more.
“Nothing was ever too much for Sue. Every mayor will have been grateful for her support for their charity appeals, organising events and inspiring others.
“A warm and generous person, Sue will be missed by so many.”
Roger French, former Brighton Buses boss, pictured here on the right with David Goldin, The Argus’s Elsa Gillio and Sue when The Argus Appeal was given the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
“Sue was one of the most kind-hearted and generous people I had the pleasure of working with as a fellow trustee of The Argus Appeal charity for almost 20 years. She always wanted to help people in need and as a business person she was one of the most community and charity-minded people in the city – if not the most. A terrible and tragic loss. I’m totally shocked at losing such a good person, colleague and friend."
READ MORE>>EastEnders actress among those paying tribute to Sue Addis
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