'All My Children' Star Susan Lucci Explains Why She Chose Not to Sell Her Marital Home Following Her Husband's Passing: 'A Place of Joy'

Susan Lucci, famed for her role on "All My Children," has shared her choice to remain in her longtime Long Island residence even after the death of her husband, Helmut Huber. At 78, Lucci expressed that she cherishes seeing her late spouse "everywhere" throughout their home.

The couple lived in the 7,000-square-foot property for more than 40 years, accumulating many fond memories. Lucci, whose memoir La Lucci is set for release in February, admitted that after Huber passed away at 84 in March 2022, she considered selling the house and moving to the city. "After I lost my husband, I asked myself, Should I sell and get a condo? Should I move to the city? But ultimately, I realized how much this house means to me," she shared with Architectural Digest.

Although she briefly considered leaving, Lucci decided to stay and completely renovate the home. She enlisted her longtime decorator, Betty Barbatsuly, who brought in her daughter Lisa Richardson, also a decorator, to assist. "Susan wanted to refresh her family room and kitchen, but soon we were inspired to update every room," Richardson said.

The renovations included both interior and exterior changes. The exterior now features white siding with blue shutters, and the interiors boast an open layout, a chefs kitchen, a breakfast area, and a salon. Lucci explained, "I wanted cleaner lines and less clutter, but it still had to feel like a proper home, not a city apartment. This is a house built in 1927."

Some of the homes antique furniture was preserved. "I was about to auction my mahogany Chippendale chairs, but their beauty convinced me to keep them," Lucci said. Barbatsuly noted, "Susan is sentimental; those pieces were essential to the redesign."

Other upgrades included renovated bathrooms and converting the unused attic into a dressing room. "Its the whole third floor, perfect for storing my gowns in order. It makes me smile every time I go up there," Lucci said.

Huber, who married Lucci in 1969, was remembered as a devoted family man and loyal friend. An accomplished former motorcycle racer, chef, skier, and golfer, he was active in local clubs and loved by many. He is survived by Lucci, two sons, two daughters, his brother, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His passing was described by the family as a significant loss for all who knew him.

Author's Opinion: A Tribute to Love and Legacy

Susan Lucci's decision to remain in her Long Island home, despite the loss of her husband, Helmut Huber, speaks volumes about the strength of their relationship and her commitment to preserving their shared memories. At 78, Lucci's attachment to the house where she and Huber spent more than 40 years is understandable. The residence is not just a physical space, but a testament to a life filled with love, companionship, and history. Even in the wake of personal tragedy, Lucci’s choice to stay rather than sell the home reflects her need to remain connected to the memories that continue to shape her daily life.

The renovation of the property, guided by long-time decorator Betty Barbatsuly, symbolizes Lucci’s desire to move forward while honoring the past. The changes, from a chef’s kitchen to a freshly designed family room, represent a balance between modern convenience and the sentimental value of the home's history. The decision to preserve certain antique pieces, like her Chippendale chairs, further highlights Lucci's emotional connection to the space. These thoughtful updates provide a sense of renewal, while ensuring the home retains the warmth and character that has defined it for decades.

In the broader context, Lucci’s choice reflects the universal human desire to keep the past alive, even in the face of loss. The renovations are more than just aesthetic—they are a way for Lucci to rebuild her life after the death of her husband. The home, with its long history and personal significance, remains a place of solace, making it a living memorial to Huber and the life they built together. It’s a poignant reminder that, even in grief, we find ways to honor the people we love, preserving their memory in the spaces we inhabit.

Sources:

• ‘All My Children’ Star Susan Lucci Reveals Why She Refused To Sell Marital Home After Death of Her Husband: ‘A Happy Place’