Elizabeth Rose Guilkey

Liz Elizabeth Rose Guilkey (née Fotheringham), age 49, passed away on April 21, 2025, at 6:54 PM in Elyria, Ohio. Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Born on November 29, 1975, in Tacoma, Washington, Liz grew up facing many challenges. Coming from humble beginnings, she encountered obstacles early in life that made her educational journey difficult. Yet through perseverance and determination, she returned to school later in life and achieved one of her proudest accomplishments: graduating from Lorain County Community College on May 13, 2023, with an Associate of Arts degree with an emphasis in Fine Art. She completed her studies with a perfect 4.0 grade point, and an active member of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) —a testament to her dedication and passion for learning.

Art was not only Liz’s vocation but also her calling. She possessed a rare creative spirit that could transform the simplest materials into works of beauty. Whether crafting commissioned pieces or volunteering to teach children and support art therapy programs, Liz poured her heart into every brushstroke and every lesson. Her artistic talents were matched only by her generosity; she gave freely of her time and energy to help others discover their own creative voices.

Liz was deeply committed to humanitarian causes and was a passionate advocate for women's rights and social justice. Her compassion extended far beyond words—she lived her values daily through action and service. She had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, especially the many students she mentored over the years. To them, she was more than a teacher; she was a guiding light who nurtured their growth with patience and love.

She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: hiking through nature’s beauty, tending to her garden, cooking meals filled with warmth and care, enjoying music and television shows that sparked laughter or reflection, and spending cherished time with friends. But above all else, Liz loved her husband deeply. Their bond was one of unwavering devotion—a partnership built on mutual respect, shared dreams, and enduring love.

Liz is survived by her beloved husband George G. Guilkey; her older sister Adeana Foerster; her younger sister Lisa Berain; as well as many nieces and nephews who brought joy to her life. She is also remembered fondly by countless students whose lives she touched with kindness and inspiration.

She was preceded in death by her father John Michael Fotheringham and her mother Winnifred Fotheringham.

A memorial service will be held on April 25, 2025, at the family home in Lorain, Ohio (44055). The family wishes to honor Elizabeth's memory in a personal and private way and encourages others to do the same in their own meaningful ways. Additional services will be held at a later date in the western United States to reflect Liz’s roots.

In tribute to Liz’s enduring legacy of creativity and compassion, her family is working to establish a memorial art scholarship fund—an initiative that reflects everything she stood for: education, opportunity, expression, and helping others thrive.

Elizabeth Rose Guilkey lived a life rich with purpose, love, artistry, and advocacy. May her memory continue to inspire all who knew her—and may it bring comfort during this time of sorrow.