Elise Karen Atlas

Elise Karen Atlas, age 81, Gainesville, Florida died peacefully on September 18, 2025. Survivors include her husband, Stephen; daughter and son, Laura and David Kaplan; stepdaughter and son-in-law, Alia Atlas and Brian Youmans; step-son, Nick Atlas; grandchildren, Sylvie, Nadia, William, Lavan, and Miri; and nephews, Joshua and Jacob Roames. She was predeceased by her loving sister, Marjorie Roames.

Elise (or Karen as she was known to many) was a joyous and spirited lover of life. She had an infectious laugh and drew people to her with her gregarious and open demeanor. She will be dearly missed by many.

She was an accomplished poet and lover of the arts who found beauty in the natural world and through human connection. Together with her husband Steve, she co-wrote several songs and poems used in Jewish and Unitarian holiday services.

Elise was an insightful and empathic soul, who bonded closely with both people and animals, especially her beloved dogs, Callie, Jilly, Marley, and Angel.

She received her BA degree in English from American University and her Masters in Library Science from Syracuse University. She was always proud to be known as a “worker” and served as a teacher in New York City Schools, a reference librarian in Washington, DC, and a telephone fundraiser.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of North Central Florida. A graveside service will be held Monday, September 22, 2025 at 11:00 am at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens, Ocala, Florida. To leave an online condolence, please visit:

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/ocala-fl/elise-atlas-12527239/add-memory