Farewell, Dear Suzie: Remembering North Texas's Empress of Enthusiasm

There are some voices, you know, that just become part of the very fabric of your life, woven into the background hum of a busy morning or the quiet of an afternoon. For countless folks across North Texas, Suzie Humphreys was undeniably one of those voices. And now, she’s gone. It’s with a genuine lump in the throat that we acknowledge the passing of this beloved television and radio personality, who left us this past Sunday at the age of 79.

Suzie, well, she wasn’t just a face on a screen or a voice on the airwaves; she was, for all intents and purposes, a force of nature. Dubbed 'The Empress of Enthusiasm,' she lived up to that grand title with every syllable, every infectious laugh, every perfectly timed pause. You could almost feel her warmth radiating through the speakers, a kind of comforting energy that promised, perhaps even insisted, that whatever challenges the day might bring, we’d get through them – maybe even with a smile.

Think back to the mid-70s and 80s, if you were around then. Suzie brightened living rooms on WFAA-TV, gracing shows like "Good Morning Texas" and bringing her unique blend of wit and wisdom to "PM Magazine." She didn’t just report the news or interview guests; she engaged, she connected. She had this remarkable ability to make you feel like she was talking directly to you, sharing a cup of coffee and some sage advice right there in your kitchen. It was, frankly, a masterclass in genuine communication.

But her magic wasn't confined to the visual medium, not at all. She transitioned seamlessly to radio, notably captivating audiences on KLIF alongside the equally talented John Kassel. It was there, and in her many subsequent ventures, that her signature blend of storytelling and self-help truly blossomed. Her message, consistently optimistic and always delivered with that characteristic twinkle, resonated deeply. She truly believed in the power of a positive outlook, and you couldn't help but believe her, too.

And let's not forget, Suzie's reach extended far beyond the studio. She authored books – remember "Lessons Learned on the Way to the Trash Can"? – and became an in-demand motivational speaker. Honestly, her mantra, that beautifully simple yet profound declaration, "Today is a good day for a good day," wasn't just a catchy phrase; it was a way of life, a gentle nudge to embrace the present, no matter what. She didn't just preach it; she embodied it.

Her departure leaves a silence, of course, a noticeable void in the North Texas media landscape. But what she left behind – the memories, the inspiration, the countless moments of uplift – well, that’s truly immeasurable. She taught us to find the silver linings, to laugh at ourselves, and to always, always look for the good. It’s a legacy that, for once, isn't just about fame; it’s about genuine human connection and the quiet power of unwavering optimism.

So, as we say goodbye to Suzie Humphreys, let’s carry a piece of her spirit forward. Perhaps, as a quiet tribute, we might just look out our window today and genuinely think, 'Yes, today is a good day for a good day.' She’d like that, I think. She really would.