ATLANTA —Suzanne Currey, 81, co-founder of Currey & Company, passed away in her home in Atlanta on July 14.
Currey was born on Oct. 8, 1943, to Mimi and Bud Straub. Her father’s career with Red Cross took the family from Charlotte, N.C., to Biloxi, Miss., Fort Polk, La., and Fayetteville, N.C., and eventually Atlanta, where she attended high school. Following high school, Suzy attended Oglethorpe University, where she met her husband of 58 years, Robert B. Currey.
The Curreys founded Storehouse Inc. in 1969, a home furnishings store that grew into a successful chain. Company representatives said that Suzy was “instrumental in the creation and development of Storehouse,” noting that she “quietly ran the organization that supported Robert’s creative vision.”
In 1988, the Curreys formed Currey & Company, an offshoot of Robert’s retail and consulting businesses. Officials said that “what was a five-year business plan became a 38-year-old business.” Today, the company has 120 employees in the southeastern U.S. and facilities in the Philippines, China and India, and is operated by Brownlee Currey.
Following retirement from Currey & Company, Suzy and Robert enjoyed activities including restoring the Harley Harris Rives House and growing organic vegetables and mushrooms. The couple organized numerous activities in their Sparta, Ga., community, including Relay for Life, and their home became a popular setting for graduation and wedding photography among community members.
Family and friends note that the Curreys modeled a successful marriage as well as work and life ethic. Despite health challenges including Type 1 Diabetes, major back surgery and later cancer, Suzy remained active and spent time with her two grandchildren. She and Robert returned to Atlanta to be close to their children and Robert’s brother, Brad, in response to growing concerns about her health.
“Suzy was a driving force in establishing Currey & Company and shaping our mission, values and vision from the beginning,” said Bob Ulrich, senior vice president of sales and marketing. “Her dedication and passion for the business will always be remembered. For me personally, Suzy was always the calm voice of reason when we needed her support, and I will miss her dearly.”
She is survived by her husband, Robert; her children, Brownlee and Laura; and her sister, Kristina Straub.
The family is planning a celebration of life in October near the time of Suzy’s birthday. Details will be published closer to the event dates. The family respectfully requests that no flowers be sent, but welcome cards and letters.
