Elizabeth Henry's Obituary
Elizabeth Maria Henry (Liz), affectionately called “Tootsie” by family, 75, a Fort Myers resident since 2018, formerly of Cape Coral, Florida, and Peekskill, New York, died January 15, 2023 in Fort Myers. She was born January 23, 1947 in Bradford, England to the late John Samuel and Tomasina Henry. Ms. Henry attended SUNY Albany and held a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Pace University. Upon graduating from SUNY Albany Liz entered public service as a caseworker in the Children's Services Program at Westchester County Department of Social Services. She progressed to Program Specialist and co-created the first Permanency Planning Review model in NY State, winning a National Association of Counties award. Liz held a range of positions in DSS including Assistant to the Commissioner, District Director over the Ossining and Mount Kisco district offices, and Program Administrator of components of the public assistance program. Though short in physical stature Liz was a giant in the field of public service.
Upon retiring in 2003, Liz moved first to Cape Coral, then to Fort Myers, FL where she spent time volunteering for the American Red Cross, crocheting, visiting art galleries, and playing Mahjong. Liz deeply appreciated art and beauty which was evident in her stunning home. She loved creating “Tootsie blankets” for her great nieces and nephews along with blankets and little hats for the Ronald McDonald House. A fitting description of Liz from a friend follows: “Liz was a unique and wonderful person - principled and witty and bright and only put up with a certain amount of nonsense and it was a privilege to know her."
Survivors include siblings; John Steven Henry and wife Madeline of Fort Myers, FL; Doreen Fitzpatrick and husband Brian of Tampa, FL; Deborah Levin of Lexington, SC; Cecilia Plantek of Prescott, AZ; and Michael D. Henry of Poughkeepsie, NY. Other survivors include eight nieces and nephews, Kara Fitzpatrick and partner Oren Eckhaus, James Fitzpatrick and wife Michelle; Megan Dingle and husband Bradley; Christopher Henry; Matthew Henry and girlfriend Lus E. Hidalgo; Andrew Onello and wife Rachel; and Lauren and Michael John Henry. Liz is also survived by ten great nieces and nephews and her best friend of 54 years, Anne Boyer.
Private memorial services are being held. Arrangements under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens, 1589 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers, FL (239) 243 0014.
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