14 Facts About Susan Buffett

Susan Thompson Buffett was an American activist for the causes of civil rights, abortion rights and birth control, and the first wife of investor Warren Buffett.

Susan Buffett was a director of Berkshire Hathaway, owning 2.2 percent of the company worth about $3 billion at the time of her death, making her the 153rd richest person in the world.

Susan Buffett was president of the Buffett Foundation, which has contributed millions of dollars to educational groups, medical research, family planning groups and other charities.

Susan Buffett's father, William Hertzog Thompson, was a minister, psychologist, dean at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and one-time campaign manager for Howard Buffett.

Susan Buffett occasionally performed hit classics from the early 1970's cabaret singer and, in 1977, had a one-night performance at an Omaha theater.

Susan Buffett started out living in a small apartment in Gramercy Tower on Nob Hill.

Susan Buffett remained married and on good terms with her husband, vacationing together with him and spending time assisting charitable groups.

Susan Buffett performed in New York and released several CDs.

In 1978, Susan Buffett introduced her husband to Astrid Menks, who moved in with Warren in their Omaha home, and married him after Susan Buffett's death.

In October 2003, Susan Buffett was diagnosed with oral cancer; she underwent surgery, radiation therapy and facial reconstruction.

Susan Buffett had recovered enough to attend the annual shareholders' meeting of Berkshire Hathaway in May 2004, leading a singalong at the Borsheim's reception.

Susan Buffett died at the age of 72 after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage during the summer of 2004 in Cody, Wyoming.

Susan Buffett left approximately $50 million to her children's charity while each of her children received $10 million and each grandchild received $100,000.

Susan Buffett left a number of friends and employees substantial sums, including $8 million to John McCabe and $1 million to Ron Parks.