Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Bricker ~ August 1, 1932 - December 19, 2023
Submitted by paula on Sun, 01/21/2024 - 4:48pm
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Bricker, aged 91, on December 19, 2023. She left this world surrounded by the love of her family and friends.
Born on August 1, 1932, Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Bricker was a devoted, loving wife and partner with her husband Darell Gene Bricker of 61 years, embarking on great adventures to the far reaches of Alaska and many journeys in between. Liz met each of life’s challenges as opportunities and left everything she touched in a better place.
She brought her enthusiastic approach early into her shared responsibilities with Darell during his tenure in Alaska as FAA station manager, then into her bookkeeping career, and later into years of volunteerism as a tireless thought leader within the nonprofit organization Soroptimist’s International of Americas (SIA). Liz served SIA passionately in many leadership roles, ultimately becoming the Governor of the Sierra Pacific Region. Her advocacy for women's and human rights and the advancement of the status of women took her across the state and country, leaving a lasting impact.
Liz's love for cooking and entertaining was well-known, with pecan pies becoming her hallmark after competitive overbidding at the SISLT Holiday Auction. Her passion for sewing, quilting, and beading fostered deep and long-lasting friendships. She volunteered at the UMC Thrift shop for many years, enjoying the fellowship.
A woman who never sat idle, Liz touched the lives of many during her life’s adventures. Her tremendous kindness, warmth, and generosity will be remembered by all who knew her, as she never met a stranger.
Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Bricker was born Mary Elizabeth Arnold on August 1, 1932, in Russellville, Arkansas, to Thomas Selkirk Arnold and Amanda Francis Abernathy. “Liz” married Darell Gene Bricker on September 29th, 1950. He predeceased her on February 15, 2012, choosing to be with her on Valentine’s Day, underscoring their deep love.
She is survived by her sister Martha “Marty” Mitchell and her deeply caring daughter Debra Kathleen Bricker-Howard (husband Anthony William Howard). Liz was a deeply loving mother to son Ronald Gene Bricker (widow Pamela Bricker-Lance), who passed away on April 12, 2010.
As a deeply caring grandmother, she leaves behind Alicia Kathleen Howard (husband Gary Joseph Miller), Bret William Howard, and Scott Bricker. As a deeply loving great-grandmother, she leaves behind Merrick Emerson Miller, Curren William Cy Miller, Korinne Bricker, and Ashley Bricker.
Her love for her entire family was on full display as she prepared for her journey home, where she now rests in peace. Forever loved and forever missed.
A memorial service to celebrate Liz's life will be held on February 18, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Carson Valley United Methodist Church, 1375 Centerville Lane, Gardnerville, NV 89410.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Soroptimists of South Lake Tahoe Girls Softball field Project at www.sislt.org/softball-field/.
Please join us in remembering and celebrating the life of Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Bricker. May her soul rest in eternal peace.