Elijah Leander Standifer

We are here today to honor and remember Elijah, someone whose light touched our lives in unique and profound ways. While his passing leaves us with a deep sorrow that words can scarcely express, today is also about celebrating who Elijah was, the joy he brought to our lives, and the love we will always carry in our hearts for him. His loss leaves a large hole in many hearts. As we grieve, let us also remember Elijah’s wish, which is that we extend kindness to one another and love family.

Elijah Leander Standifer Durley was born on June 19, 1999, at Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula, Monterey, California, to Lea Pami Durley and Edward (Eddie) Wayne Standifer, Jr., and passed away on September 19, 2025.

Elijah attended Inquisitive Quest Preschool in Monterey, CA; Highland and Olsen Elementary Schools, Seaside, CA; Seaside Middle School; and Seaside High School. At Seaside High School he became very involved and loved being a proud member of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, known as JROTC. While in the JROTC, Elijah worked his way up to Commander of the Color Guard. Upon graduation Elijah enlisted in the US Navy and was an IT, Information Technician. He served 4 years in the Navy, receiving an Honorable Discharge.

Elijah was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Pami Eileen Durley.

Elijah’s memory will be cherished and lived in the hearts of his mother, Lea, and father, Eddie; his brother, Edward III; his grandfather, Leander (Lee) Raymond Durley; his grandparents Edward (Stan) Sr. and Lucille Standifer; and his Cousin/Sister, Chloe Lawson, all of Seaside, CA. His memory will also be cherished by many aunts, uncles, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Elijah brought energy and curiosity into every space he entered. From the first time that he could talk, giving that inquisitive look, and questioning why to the last memories we shared, he brought smiles and wonder. He had a way of noticing the little things and asking questions that made you pause and think. Elijah was an ardent artistic person who liked to draw and was passionate about John Denver, Childish Gambino, and Bob Dylan music. He loved sharing Shadow the Hedgehog stories with his cousins, nephews, and nieces. He cared deeply about animals and was enrolled in Oregon State University, majoring in Zoology.

Elijah may be gone, but his memory will live on forever. He touched the lives of so many people with his kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit. Words cannot express how much we will miss

him. Elijah’s chapter on earth has come to an end, but his story lives on in those who love him. Rest in peace, our dear Elijah.