Liverpool entrepreneur and former barrister Sue Wright has died aged 57, her partner Faisal Arif announced on Saturday. Tony McDonough reports
One of the best known figures in Liverpool’s business and legal world, Sue Wright, has died aged 57 with many tributes already posted on social media.
In December Sue, who was a mother to five children, revealed she had received a stage 4 cancer diagnosis after a period of sudden and unexplained illness.
After going public with her illness, Sue received countless messages of heartfelt support from people in Liverpool city region and across the country with messages, cards and flowers pouring in.
Announcing her death this morning her partner of several years, Faisal Arif, said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful Sue Wright, Susan Elizabeth Wright, the beloved partner of Faisal Arif and the heart of our family, who passed away peacefully today.
“Sue was a devoted mother, a deeply loved partner, a cherished sister and a loyal friend to so many. Her strength, warmth, kindness and courage touched the lives of everyone who knew her, and she will be remembered with immense love and pride.
“She will be profoundly missed and forever in our hearts.”
Sue grew up in foster care and endured a period of homelessness. She defied the odds to qualify as a barrister, specialising in family law, and then later became an entrepreneur and a consultant helping businesses with investment.
Along the way, she was supported by a woman she credits with changing the course of her life – a care home owner named Mrs Smythe. It was there Sue first heard the words that reshaped her future: “There is always more room at the table.”
Those words became the foundation of her own family with her five children initially fostered by her and then adopted. They have filled her life with “pride, purpose and love”.
She has been a fierce advocate for vulnerable people and was honoured at the 2025 Women of the Year Awards, where she was recognised for her work with children and families.