Elise Lorraine Dees

Elise Lorraine Benson Dees, age 72, passed away peacefully on April 5th 2026 at her home in Thousand Oaks CA.. Born on February 3, 1954, in Daytona Beach, Florida, Elise was a woman of many talents, a gentle leader, and a lifelong lover of animals.

A Life of Passion and Connection

From her earliest childhood, Elise held a deep-seated love for horses. As an adult, she dedicated herself to mastering the art of horse training, championing a kind and gentle approach that proved remarkably effective. Her "special gift" extended to all creatures; she had a unique ability to connect with animals, and they, in turn, adored her.

Even as a pre-teenager, Elise possessed a natural, quiet leadership. She was often ahead of her time, introducing her peers to new music and styles well before they reached the mainstream. People naturally looked up to her, drawn to her effortless sense of discovery and direction.

A Versatile Career

Elise wore many hats throughout her professional life:

• Literary Management: She spent fifteen years as a dedicated manager for Waldenbooks.

• Equine Mentorship: While in Florida, she shared her expertise by coaching a young girl in barrel racing, leading the pair to first and second-place victories.

• The Sierra Nevada: After moving to California, Elise worked at two riding stables in the Sierra Nevada mountains. She discovered that the Sierras were her true heart’s home—one of her most beloved places in the entire world.

• Marketing & Tech: In her later years, she developed and managed sophisticated marketing campaigns for the regulatory software company, Fed Reporter Inc.

Family and Legacy

Elise is survived by her mother, Sandra Elise Driggers, and step-father, George Driggers; her brother, Greg Benson; her sister, Cynthia Templer, and brother-in-law, Phillip Templer.

Elise is, and always will be, deeply missed. Her kindness and spirit remain in our hearts forever.