Elizabeth Lea Aulbach

Elizabeth Lea Aulbach, lovingly known to many as “Momma Aulbach,” passed into the arms of her Savior and Friend on the afternoon of Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on October 30, 1961, Lea spent many cherished years as a beloved member of the Punta Gorda, Florida community.

Lea will be remembered for her contagious laugh, comforting hugs, and a home where everyone was welcomed as family. Her life overflowed with kindness, laughter, and an open-door policy that made people feel safe and loved. If you were in her home, you were “home.”

For nearly two decades, Lea served the children and families of Charlotte County as a paraprofessional at Baker School, Deep Creek Elementary, and Charlotte High School. She left an indelible mark on students, teachers, and the wider school community through her selfless dedication and undeniable joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond L. and Mary Lu Higginbotham, and her beloved husband of 29 years, Robert L. Aulbach. She is survived by her children, Heather J. Ridley (Drew) and Robert L. Aulbach II; and her treasured granddaughters, Marissa and Linnea Ridley. Her legacy also lives on through the many “bonus kids” and lifelong friends she embraced as family.

Lea's life was defined by service, love, and a genuine zest for living. She was an active member of First Alliance Church (Movement) in Port Charlotte and Deep Creek Community Church in Punta Gorda, where she served in youth ministry and hospitality. She found joy in simple pleasures—riding her Harley for “wind therapy,” thrifting for treasures, playing cards, and cheering on the Charlotte High Tarpons in a full blue and gold ensemble. On Friday nights in the fall, you could find her on the 50-yard line, a proud and enthusiastic supporter. #GATA #GoTarpons

Generous to her core, Lea was the kind of person who, even if she had little, would still find a way to give. Her warmth and faith-filled life touched countless people, and the void left by her passing is felt deeply by all who knew her. Yet, we rejoice in knowing she is reunited with loved ones and dancing in Heaven’s joy.

A service celebrating Lea’s life will be held alongside her mother’s on Friday, June 13, at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation at 11 a.m. at Kays-Ponger-Uselton Funeral Home, 635 E. Marion Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Charlotte High School, 1250 Cooper Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 or the National Kidney Foundation.