Our Englewood community has lost a true pioneer and trailblazer. Sue Parsons Zipay, age 91, passed away recently, leaving behind an incredible legacy that spans professional baseball, women’s sports advocacy, and decades of community service right here in our area.

A Life That Made History

Sue’s story reads like something out of Hollywood – and in fact, part of it literally was. Born in Massachusetts, Sue became one of the remarkable women who played professional baseball in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), suiting up for the famous Rockford Peaches in 1953 and 1954.

For those who remember the beloved 1992 film “A League of Their Own,” Sue actually appeared in the movie, bringing authentic experience to the screen alongside stars like Geena Davis and Rosie O’Donnell. Her participation in the film helped introduce a new generation to the incredible women who broke barriers in professional sports during the 1940s and 1950s.

More Than Just a Player

Sue’s versatility on the field was remarkable. She played as a pitcher, second baseman, outfielder, and third baseman for the Rockford Peaches – a testament to her athletic ability and team-first mentality. But her impact extended far beyond her playing days.

Understanding the importance of creating opportunities for future generations, Sue established the American Girls Baseball organization, which continues to provide girls and women with chances to play baseball. This wasn’t just about nostalgia – it was about ensuring that the doors she helped open would remain open for others.

A Florida Legacy

Sue made Florida her home in 1987, becoming a beloved member of our community for nearly four decades. She didn’t just retire quietly to the Sunshine State; she remained active and engaged, serving as President of the Placida Harbour Condominium Association and continuing her advocacy work.

Her dedication to community service was evident in her role as chairman of the Recreation Commission in Marshfield, Massachusetts, before her move to Florida, and as a board member for the All American Girls Professional Baseball League Players Association – a position she held to help preserve and promote the legacy of women’s professional baseball.

Breaking Barriers in Every Era

What made Sue truly remarkable wasn’t just that she played professional baseball when few women could – it was how she used that platform throughout her life. From establishing organizations to support young female athletes to serving in community leadership roles well into her later years, Sue understood that breaking barriers is an ongoing responsibility.

Her work with the American Girls Baseball organization ensured that the progress made by her generation wouldn’t be lost. She knew that creating opportunities for others was just as important as seizing opportunities for herself.

A Hollywood Connection with Real Impact

While Sue’s appearance in “A League of Their Own” brought her story to a wider audience, those who knew her understood that the real story was even more inspiring than what made it to the screen. The film helped preserve the memory of the AAGPBL, but women like Sue lived that history and then dedicated their lives to extending its impact.

Remembering a True Pioneer

As we reflect on Sue’s 91 years, we see a life lived with purpose and impact. From the baseball diamonds of the 1950s to the community centers and condo associations of Florida, she consistently stepped up to serve and lead.

Her passing marks the end of an era, as fewer and fewer of the original AAGPBL players remain with us. But her legacy lives on in every young woman who picks up a baseball glove, every community organization that benefits from dedicated volunteers, and every person who believes that barriers exist to be broken.

As we say goodbye to this remarkable woman, we celebrate not just what she accomplished, but how she used those accomplishments to lift others up. That’s the true measure of a life well-lived, and Sue’s example will continue to inspire long after her final inning.

Rest in peace, Sue. Thank you for showing us what it means to be a pioneer, a competitor, and a community leader. Your legacy will live on in every young woman who dares to dream big and every community that benefits from dedicated service.