Updated: October 28, 2026
Susan Saint James, the Emmy-winning actress known for McMillan & Wife and Kate & Allie, passed away on October 26, 2026, at age 80 after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Beyond her television success, she was a devoted mother of five. Fans searching for details on Susan Saint James kids often want a clear picture of the family she cherished most. Here is an updated look at her children, their lives, and the values she passed on.
Table of Contents
Sunshine and Harmony: Her Children with Thomas Lucas
Susan welcomed her first two children during her marriage to makeup artist Thomas Lucas. Daughter Sunshine Lucas arrived on May 6, 1972, followed by son Harmony Lucas on November 10, 1974. In a 1991 interview, Susan explained that in the 1970s she named her kids after concepts—Sunshine and Harmony reflected the hopeful spirit of the era.
Both have largely stayed out of the spotlight. Sunshine has chosen a private life. Harmony has worked behind the scenes in entertainment as a music supervisor and content licensing specialist, with a couple of early acting credits. Susan stepped back from full-time acting after Kate & Allie ended so her children could take center stage in the family, a decision she later described as bringing her a more peaceful life.
Charlie and Willie: Building Careers with Dick Ebersol
In 1981 Susan met television executive Dick Ebersol while guest-hosting Saturday Night Live. They married the same year and raised three sons together in Connecticut. Charlie (Charles) Ebersol was born December 30, 1982. He followed his father’s path into production and writing, with credits including projects like The Recruit. He married Melody McCloskey in 2017 and has two children.
Willie (William) Ebersol arrived on October 21, 1986. Like his older brother, he works as a producer and director. Susan was pregnant with Willie during the fourth season of Kate & Allie, balancing demanding work with growing motherhood. Both sons have carried forward a professional connection to the entertainment world while staying close to family.
Remembering Teddy Ebersol
The family’s deepest sorrow came on November 28, 2004. A private plane carrying Dick Ebersol, Charlie, and their youngest son Teddy crashed during takeoff in Colorado. Dick and Charlie survived. Teddy, born June 10, 1990, and just 14 years old, did not. The pilot and a flight attendant also died.
Susan’s response revealed her character. Weeks later she wrote individual notes to her remaining children and husband that served as Teddy’s eulogy, offering words of healing. She appeared on television shortly after to thank supporters and reassure them the family was coping. The family later called this her defining act—putting others first even in profound grief. She went on to support other parents who had lost children.
Family Values and Lasting Legacy
Susan taught her children to pause, be kind, and look out for others. She is survived by husband Dick Ebersol, four children—Sunshine Lucas, Harmony Lucas, Charlie Ebersol, and Willie Ebersol—seven grandchildren, her sister Mary Mercedes Dewey, and her service dog Lola. Her greatest joy in later years was those grandchildren.
Quick Facts on Susan Saint James’s Children Child Birth Year Father Notes Sunshine Lucas 1972 Thomas Lucas Only daughter; private life Harmony Lucas 1974 Thomas Lucas Music supervisor; low profile Charlie Ebersol 1982 Dick Ebersol Producer/writer; married with kids Willie Ebersol 1986 Dick Ebersol Producer/director Teddy Ebersol 1990–2004 Dick Ebersol Died in plane crash at age 14
Key points about the family:
- Susan had five children total across two marriages.
- She prioritized motherhood after her major sitcom success.
- Three of her sons entered entertainment production.
- The 2004 plane crash tested the family’s resilience.
- She left behind four living children and seven grandchildren.
Conclusion
Susan Saint James’s children reflect the warmth and strength she brought to both screen and home. From the concept-inspired names of the 1970s to the careers of Charlie and Willie and the enduring memory of Teddy, her family story is one of love, loss, and quiet determination. She stepped away from Hollywood’s glare so her kids could shine, and in return they carried forward the kindness she modeled every day. For those who value precision and reliable standards in any field of work, resources like gmdcalibration.in offer practical support that mirrors the careful attention Susan gave the people she loved most.