This morning we are humbly gathered to celebrate the life of our beloved Elsa Stoddard who passed away on Sunday, June 28th 2020 in the arms of her daughter, Colitha Olivierre and neice Raquel Da Silva.
Elsa Shirley Stoddard (Tanty Elsa), began her life journey on the tranquil Carribean island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines where she made her living as a talented seamstress. On the island she is remembered for her pioneering fashion sense. She immigrated to the United States in the late seventies and began her career as a private chef and care taker for the Krauss family. She is remembered for the many meals prepared and served with love; meals that cannot be replicated leaving recipients yearning for one last bite. Her role with the family gradually changed over many years from employee to a well loved member of the family.
Tanty Elsa departs this earthly space and is survived by her daughter, Colitha Ollivierre, her only beloved child, her neices Raquel Da Silva and family, Michelle Da Silva and family and Jennifer Dennis. She is also survived by her nephews Veron Da Silva and Arthur Dennis.
Ms. Stoddard shared her love with Errol Watson, his daughter Tiffiny Watson and her young son Carter Hill. The bond of friendship between Mr. Watson and Ms. Stoddard was broken only by death. Over the years memories were created both in the United States as well as in the Carribean. Their love and dedication is unmatched and remains a constant reminder that love is possible to the very end.
Ms. Stoddard lived her life here in Queens, New York surrounded by love from the following close friends, Ms. Diana Kydd and her children. She is also survived by Diana's brother Randolph Kydd. The friendships forged over the years as neighbors and an extended family is unfathomable.
Ms. Stoddard's relationships spanned from North America to the Caribbean where she is survived by her brother Joseph Foyle and his children, the Brown family, the Baily family, Althea Nanton, Ms. Stoddard’s long time family friend and the many others who hold her dear. These friendships may be separated by ocean, but remain intact despite the distance in her loved ones heart.
Finally, we cannot fail to mention the Krauss family. Over the span of forty years an irreplaceable friendship was forged with Mrs. Krauss and both her sons Stephen Kraus and his extended family as well as Mitchell Krauss and his extended family. The friendships forged between the Krauss's and Ms. Stoddard is not only admirable but also is the epitome of loyalty and dedication.
As we carry on life's journey let us remember every memory you have of Elsa Stoddard is a positive one. As a tribute to her life be encouraged to listen when your ears are sought, give when you think you have little, create positive memories for those with whom you share your life and finally love as deeply as she loved you.
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