Mrs. Elizabeth Tilghman Elsea, 89, passed away peacefully at home April 9, 2020.
She was born in December of 1930, in Cape Charles, to the late William Edward Tilghman and the late Elizabeth Poulson Ames. Growing up on the Eastern Shore was a magical and happy time. And even though life took her to many different and exciting places, her heart always longed to go home.
She married Richard Elsea Sr. in August of 1955.He preceded her in death in 2007.
Before starting her own family, she began her career as a radiology technician at DePaul Hospital, in Norfolk, Va. After raising her children, she worked for many years as a teacher and office administrator at Town & Country Day School. This job was well suited for her caretaking heart. Elizabeth had a natural love for all children but none more than her own. She was a dedicated mother and treasured every moment spent with each of her six children: her son, Larry Lewis, of Cape Charles; daughter, Diane Taplin (David), of New Tazwell, Tenn.; daughter, Denise Levine (Phil), of Charlotte, N.C.; son, Richard Elsea Jr., of Charlotte; son, David Lee Elsea (Sherry), of Youngsville, N.C.; daughter, Susan Beck (Steve Courchesne), of Gun Barrel City, Texas.
She especially loved her role as “Grandma” to her 14 grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as her niece and nephews, by whom she was affectionately known to as “Aunt Dissy.”
Elizabeth was joined in heaven by her dear sister, Peggy Joyce Butler, five short days later.
Elizabeth’s obituary and memorial page can be viewed at www.Carolinafuneral.com
A graveside service will be held at a later date when Elizabeth will be laid to rest beside her grandparent and parents in Cape Charles, finally bringing her home.
