Elizabeth was born in Phoenix, Arizona, and raised in Detroit, Michigan - two places that helped shape her grit, independence, and deep understanding of the world. For the last 20 years, she made her home in Grindstone City with her beloved husband, Dan where together they created their own self-made piece of paradise, rooted in love, intention, and hard work.
With a high school education and an unrelenting drive to learn and grow, Elizabeth built a life defined not by limitations, but by purpose. Over the course of her life, she held a variety of careers, each one reflecting her passion for service and her determination to make a difference. Most notably, she was a three-time published author, and a powerful advocate for children. Elizabeth served for many years as President of the Huron County CAN Council, where she became a true warrior for children. Fearlessly protecting their rights and using her voice to speak for those who could not. This work was deeply personal and profoundly meaningful, carried out in honor of her late grandson, Sean.
Above all else, Elizabeth’s heart belonged to her family. She deeply loved her children and her grandchildren, and nothing brought her greater joy than spending time with them and creating memories that would last a lifetime. Whether through shared meals, conversations, laughter, traditions, or quiet moments together, Elizabeth was fully present with those she loved. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, and her love was felt in both grand gestures and the smallest, most meaningful moments.
Elizabeth was known for her remarkable strength and resilience, her compassion, and her unwavering determination to create change. She possessed rare emotional courage and lived unapologetically as herself. Her warmth drew people in, and her presence left them feeling seen and understood. Despite the profound impact she had on so many lives, Elizabeth remained incredibly humble, often unaware of just how deeply she influenced the world around her.
In her quieter moments, Elizabeth found joy in nurturing her creativity and her home. She loved gardening, cooking, reading, crafting, and continually honing her writing craft alongside her Rebel Magic peer writing group. These activities reflected her thoughtful spirit and her appreciation for beauty in both words and life.
Elizabeth Herd’s legacy is that of a true warrior: a woman of immense strength, unwavering courage, and fierce, enduring love. She will be remembered not only for what she accomplished, but for who she was - a protector, a creator, a devoted mother and grandmother, and a light to so many.
Elizabeth was the loving wife of Danny for 30 years. The beloved mother of Michael Sowards, Adrianna (Adam) Kurkowski, Miranda (Michael) Kemp, Ryan Herd, and Rachel Herd. The cherished Nana of Anna, the late Sean, Lauren, Matthew, Theodore, Walter and Griffin. The dear sister of John (Kathleen) Sowards, Mary Sowards Wyrzykowski, Joann (Clayton) Culver, and Raymond "Ken" (Kris) Sowards. She is also survived by her dearest friend of 57 years, Fran Walters Zientek.
Visitation will be held at Resurrection Funeral Home, located at 40800 Hayes Road in Clinton Township on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The funeral service will take place on Monday, January 19, 2026, starting at 11:00 am at the funeral home. Friends may visit on Monday beginning at 10:00 am.
