Elise Newberry Floyd, 81, died as courageously as she lived and on her own terms on June 14, 2019 in Portland, Oregon.  Elise was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Floyd, having enjoyed an adventurous life together residing in several cities within the United States, and abroad in the Czech Republic. Elise was born in Bainbridge, Ga., was a graduate of Florida State University, and a teacher of history and English. She was an enthusiastic wife, and the consummate supportive mother who taught the value of history and the inspiration of progress.

Elise spent her last days as she had spent many others, sharing her love and stories with her family.  She served as a role model in life by showing her family and friends how to love deeply, think critically, and speak frankly.   Elise’s passion for young people, history, government, and politics were her hallmarks, and are now her legacy. In her last years, she encouraged the young people with whom she spent time to “pick up the torch”, to care about one another, their country, the environment, and the world.  She was intelligent, loving, had a wonderful smile and a keen sense of humor.  Elise valued her independence, expressed gratitude for all that she had, and left us with precious words of wisdom, peace, and resolve.  Elise loved her family unconditionally, had true faith, and was not burdened by fear in life or in death.    We will love, remember, and miss her from here to eternity.

She is survived by her daughter, Kim Floyd and wife Mikeanne Minter; her son Ken Floyd and wife Wendy Floyd; five grandchildren, Ken Villalpando, Liz Wielgosz, Joe Floyd, Mia Floyd, and Charlie Floyd; and four great grandchildren.