Elizabeth Anne Gardea

Elizabeth Anne Gardea, 75, passed away on August 16, 2026.

Born on September 30, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Elizabeth was one of seven children. It was while living in El Paso, Texas that she met her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Victor.

Elizabeth and Victor married and built a loving life together that spanned 55 years. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who never missed a game or activity—first for her children and later for her grandchildren. Being present for the people she loved was simply who she was.

A caregiver at heart, Elizabeth was always willing to step in when her family needed her. She supported her mother as she faced ovarian cancer and took on responsibilities to help her siblings throughout the years. She remained especially close to her siblings, often sharing laughter during their daily phone calls.

Elizabeth graduated from Ysleta High School in El Paso and later achieved a milestone that reflected her remarkable determination: earning her bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University in 2007 at the age of 56. Education and hard work remained important to her throughout her life.

Elizabeth built a respected career in accounting, holding positions at Global Credit Union and Eastern Washington University before retiring from Banner Bank's corporate office. Her time at EWU was especially meaningful to her. She treasured the opportunity to work with college students, and the warmth and care she showed them were warmly returned.

Her life was also marked by extraordinary strength. Elizabeth survived two forms of breast cancer and spent the final three years of her life battling pancreatic cancer. Through every challenge, she maintained a positive outlook, continued to focus on others, and shared the big, beautiful smile that brightened the lives of those around her.

Elizabeth found joy in yoga, bike riding, and walking, and she even completed a half marathon. She created gorgeous quilts, had a beautiful singing voice, and shared a wonderful laugh that brought joy to those fortunate enough to hear it.

Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Victor Gardea; her daughter, Theresa Allen; her son, Christopher Gardea; her sister, Mary Ellisor; her brothers, Kevin Devine and Hugh Devine; her grandchildren, Zachary Allen, Nathaniel Allen, Isabelle Gardea, and Dane Gardea; and her great-granddaughter, Vivian Allen. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Mark Devine, Dennis Devine, and Stephen Devine.

Elizabeth leaves behind a lasting legacy of perseverance, compassion, warmth, and joy. She will be deeply missed, and her memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.