Susan Hammond Harkness

Susan Hammond Harkness, 81, of Hayesville, NC, passed away on October 15, 2026. She was born to the late Richard H. Hammond, Sr. and Kathleen Lyman Hammond in Miami, FL.

She attended Stevens University and spent weekends and summers throughout college touring the Southeast to compete in equestrian events. Susan returned to school later in life to complete a Master of Social Work degree. She moved full-time to her beloved mountain home in Hayesville, NC, in 2020, where she attended nearby McConnell Memorial Baptist Church.

Susan is survived by her nephew, Rick Hammond (Lisa), and great-niece Lindsay Hammond; her treasured friend and stepdaughter, Holland Hood (Steven); her rat terrier “furbabies” Lily Belle and Sadie Mae; and valued friend/helper/caregiver, Jason MacLean.

A private memorial for family will take place at a later date.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home, Hiawassee, GA, is honored to serve the family of Susan Hammon Harkness. You may send condolences to the family and sign guest register at www.cochranmcdaniel.com