Elizabeth Latherow

Biography Elizabeth Ellison Latherow Cocoa Beach, Florida July 7, 1953 to November 27, 2009 Elizabeth Ellison Latherow, 56, Cocoa Beach resident for 45 years died Friday in her home surrounded by her husband John and his family, dear friends Chris Herbert, Jackie Holland, and long time friend and care-giver Donna Van Heusden. Many of her local friends had a chance to say goodbye to Liz over the preceding days, including Jim and Gloria Dupury who visited from Pennsylvania. Liz was born on Guam, July 7, 1953 while her father served in the Air Force. She was a 1971 graduate of Cocoa Beach High School. She was an avid traveler, known for her warm heart and quick wit. Liz enjoyed working in the 1980’s for Barnett Bank and 1990’s for Carnival Cruise Line. Liz married John Latherow on February 12, 1989. Due to their love of the area and its natural beauty they made their home on the Banana River. For the past 10 years Elizabeth fought multiple sclerosis like a trooper, always enjoying life and making a strong and lasting impression on those lucky enough to have known her. Never selfish, Liz greeted everyone with a smile, showing compassion and care for others, ending conversations with “I love you”. Although Liz lived with MS for many years, always interested in her friend’s lives she told them “you’re doing this for the two of us now, so have fun”. Through her courage Liz taught her friends to enjoy the moment and to accept life’s challenges. Liz will be sorely missed but will remain in the hearts of her friends and family. Liz is survived by husband of twenty years, John D, Latherow; step children Chris and Amber Latherow and Michelle Lucas; grandchildren Lauren Lucas, and Jena Dorff and Luke Latherow. Her mother Ruthie Ellison preceded her in death on April 7, 2007. In lieu of flowers, please make a generous donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, or the hospice organization of your choice.