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Elizabeth James Obituary
Nashville, TN
Elizabeth Royster James, a light to all who knew her, passed away on September 30, 2015. Elizabeth had a sparkling personality, an incisive wit and a smile that brightened every room. She made every person feel special and was a giving and devoted daughter, sister, aunt, godmother and friend. Elizabeth was beloved.
Elizabeth is survived by her mother, Jeannette Cross of Asheville, North Carolina; father, Dr. Everett James of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; brother, Everett (Gretchen) James of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; sister, Jeannette (Clay) Whitson of Nashville, Tennessee; and nieces and nephews, Clay and Elizabeth Whitson, and Charlotte and Katherine James.
Elizabeth James was an event designer and planner of extraordinary talent. She was widely admired for transforming every occasion into a magical and memorable experience. Elizabeth pushed beyond the bounds of the expected and was mindful of every small detail. This was rooted in her ability to listen perceptively to every client and in her deep desire to capture their ideas and transform them into once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Before forming her own company, Elizabeth was the director of the International Steeplechase Group, an organization that developed global steeplechase meets. Elizabeth also formerly owned and operated the Company Company, a catering business in Atlanta, Georgia.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts in 1967, Elizabeth was a native of Nashville. She was a graduate of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1989, and Franklin Road Academy in 1985. She also attended the Harpeth Hall School.
Devoted to numerous nonprofit groups, Elizabeth was a board member of Carolina Women's Leadership Council and Friends of Warner Parks and previously volunteered with Cumberland Heights; Frist Center for the Arts; Iroquois Steeplechase; Land Trust for Tennessee; Nashville Food Project; Second Harvest Food Bank; STARS; and St. Augustine's Church.
Elizabeth had strong faith and a great love of the outdoors and of every creature great and small. That love inspired her steady willingness to help any person in any circumstance. This grace extended well beyond her family and friends as she frequently volunteered to feed the hungry, treating every person with dignity.
Elizabeth James will be long remembered for the immeasurable gifts she gave and for the deep impression she has left on the hearts of all who knew her.
A service to celebrate Elizabeth's remarkable life will be held on Sunday, October 4th at 2 p.m., at Benton Chapel at Vanderbilt University Divinity School, at 21st and Scarritt Place. A visitation will be held immediately prior to the service beginning at 12:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Carolina Women's Leadership Council (University of North Carolina), Friends of Warner Parks and Nashville Food Project.
Visit the online obituary: MarshallDonnellyCombs.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth James
Lynn Walker
September 27, 2020
I dreamed about Elizabeth one night since she died, and she was smiling that beautiful smile She didn’t say anything. She just smiled. May she Rest In Peace. I will always miss her, but I know Nette And Gene are taking good care of her now.
Losa Campbell
September 26, 2020
I was just thinking about her yesterday. Miss her.
Kate Morales
September 26, 2019
This world is not as bright without you in It Elizabeth- love, Kate and Mike
Amy Shaffer
November 15, 2015
Such an honor to know & work with Elizabeth. All the video projects we worked on together- you gave me amazing opportunities and I wish I would have told you more how blown away I was to work on your team. Sweet girl- may you be in peace. This world was so blessed to have you for a moment.
MaryCatherine Kurzenski
October 27, 2015
Speechless, stunned and without the adequate words to express how incredibly saddened I am over the death of your precious Elizabeth. I have walked in your shoes but in a different way. The loss of a child shakes us to our core. It is not the way life is supposed to be ordered. Parents first and then children. A thought from Dr. Seuss has brought me great comfort "do not cry because it is over, smile because it happened". It has helped me deal with the sudden death of my son. With prayers and sympathy, MaryCatherine Kurzenski (UNC-GAA)
celeste shaughnessy
October 14, 2015
I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength. I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!"
"Gone where?"
Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!" there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: 'Here she comes!"
Carla Beach
October 8, 2015
I was shocked and so sad to hear about Elizabeth. She was such a light to many and well-loved. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
October 7, 2015
Dear Friends, I cannot express the shock and grief that we feel. I am "holding you all in the lIGHT" With Love, Gretel
October 7, 2015
Returned from a trip yesterday and heard this terrible news. Elizabeth was a professional in the truest sense of the word but clearly also so much more. Prayers of comfort and healing go out to Jeanette, her family, and many God Children. Love, Amy Jackson Smith
Pat Lester
October 6, 2015
Everette and Jeanette, my deepest condolences for this unexpected loss. She was a remarkable women of whom I know you both were proud.
Rainey Astin
October 6, 2015
She was so many wonderful things but best of all she had sass and gumption with style - only she could pull that off. She'd be the one to tell you - kindly - that you had toilet paper hanging out of the back of your very proper skirt, your zipper was down, or the person you just went on and on about was now standing right behind you. She shared the best and the lowest moments and she made you laugh all the while. I remember her with a raised eyebrow and a quick comment out of the side of her mouth. What a glorious woman - a touchstone - and an inspiration for going the extra mile, finding humor in every situation - and for being human. Thank you Elizabeth for touching my life early on in college - I feel blessed.
Elena Graces
October 6, 2015
Jeannette,Everett and the James family, I am heartsick for you . Elizabeth was such a warm , sweet, person to be around. She was always thoughtful and always looking out for others , she will be missed. Love, Elena
Tracy Frazier
October 6, 2015
Elizabeth, always with a smile, was a delight in our lives in Nashville and is sorely missed for the joy she gave to all. My heart goes out to the family members and many friens who loved her so, and will miss her deeply.
Peggy (Hamme) Youngblood
October 6, 2015
Hello Jeannette, Everette, and Nancy: There are no words to express our sorrow for all of you. Grief is the hardest of all emotions to bear. You are in our prayers and love, and many thoughts.
Most sincerely, Peggy (Hamme) and C. Bob Youngblood
[email protected]
Elizabeth Hallett
October 5, 2015
We are so sad to hear of the loss of the much love, talented and beautiful Elizabeth. We are thinking of and sending all our love to Jeannette, Clay, Clay and Elizabeth and all the James family. Love Liz, Richard, Madeleine, Lachlan and Sophie
October 5, 2015
Somehow this all seems so unreal. We the Weigels all sat around and had a trip down memory lane with special times with the James family. Our memories were so delicious and many brought rounds of laughter and spatters of tears. We go far back to little ones at Harding----Carolina Blue that runs deep---Saint George's---- and parties , parties, parties. Through all those times our Elizabeth.s smile sealed the deal. Our hearts are broken and our love and prayers surround you always,
Dee Jacobson
October 5, 2015
Elizabeth was one of the most talented & creative souls with the smile of an angel. May your family find peace and feel your presence as their angel helping them bridge to tomorrow. I heard someone say as I walked out of the visitation yesterday, "of course the sun is shining, Elizabeth always brought the sunshine"... May your bright soul shine on~ Lifting the James & Whitson families up to the Loving Light...
Dee Jacobson
Stacey Ibrahim
October 5, 2015
To my dear friend Jeanette and "big" Jeanette... I am so, so sorry for your loss! Elizabeth was such a precious soul who would light up any room. My heart hurts so for all of you! George and I have you in our thoughts and prayers.
William Clark Spencer, Jr.
October 5, 2015
I have only known her lovely Mother at the beginning of her times at St. Marys Junior college in Raleigh. She has always been so very special to my family. God Bless all who know them!
October 4, 2015
Our deepest condolences and love.
Pam, Greg, Mia, Zach and Josh Pauline, Australia
Portia Thomas
October 4, 2015
I only met Elizabeth once, yet I immediately felt a loving kinship with her. I got to spend the day with her prepping for my dear friend Christi's 40th birthday. We had so much fun! It was a very happy day for me and many others. what a special woman. Love and Peace to you all, Portia
October 4, 2015
I will never forget sweet Elizabeth's warm and beautiful smile. I have fond memories of babysitting Elizabeth years ago. My sympathy and prayers for the James family.
Betty Darwin Pirtle
October 4, 2015
Elizabeth was one of the most compassionate women I have ever met. Her friendship was priceless. My deepest condolences and prayers to Elizabeth's family. She was dearly loved!! Janet and Jim Ayers
Kate & Mike Morales
October 4, 2015
To Elizabeth's family; our hearts go out to you all.
JM
October 4, 2015
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.
Lee and Mary Barfield
October 3, 2015
This is a sad day for all of us as Elizabeth was like a member of our family and others felt the same way. She planned many wonderful parties for us but I will always remember a special family Christmas party two years ago with crafts, chocolates, Santa, photos and even (artificial) snow falling on the guests from the balcony as they arrived. We marveled: "how did Elizabeth do that?" She was lots of fun for everyone she was around. Our deep respect, condolences and prayers to the wonderful James family. Lee and Mary Barfield
Carmelo Roman
October 3, 2015
I pray for your peace and for solace for your family. I will miss your beautiful smile and long for your inspiration and talent. You can not be replaced and will never be forgotten. May the peace of Gods love cradle your rest.
Hilda & Jim McGregor
October 3, 2015
There was never a prettier, warm smile than Elizabeth's! She would make her way through a crowd to speak to you. We miss her already. May fond memories, and the knowledge that others care, comfort her family and friends now and in the days to come. Rest in Peace, sweet Elizabeth.
joseph and Rachel Diggs
October 3, 2015
Rachel and I will always remember Elizabeth as our little girl. We first got to know her and her family as guests in their home on Bellemeade Bvld in Nashville,TN. We are saddened at her passing, but will cherish the memorable moments that we shared with her. Heartfelt condolences go to her wonderful family.
Joe and Rachel Diggs
October 3, 2015
Loved and missed. Ms. Wonderful !
Jody Pagano
October 3, 2015
Joe and I send our prayers for healing to your family. We know you were adored.
Martha Phipps
October 3, 2015
Jeannette I am praying for you and your family. Love Martha Phipps
Angie
October 3, 2015
A beautiful soul that will continue to radiate in our hearts and memories. A true leader with a servant's heart. Blessings and sympathy to her family and those closest to Elizabeth James. She will be missed by many.
Hunt
October 3, 2015
One of kind....Words can never describe Liz..... She was and will always be in my heart....I miss her. She gave so much to so many people.... ....Gone but never forgotten...Love and Peace......
Kelly Cross
October 2, 2015
Give peace O Lord to your handmaid,
who has fallen asleep.
May flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Beautiful, beloved, adorable niece.
Jace Johnston
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth, your talent and charm will be greatly missed. You were one of a kind. I will never forget your intense creative vision and passion for the culinary arts. Collaborating with you over the years has made me a better chef. I will miss you dearly friend. May your kind and passionate soul shine on.
Catherine Vrettos
October 2, 2015
To the Whitson Family--you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lynn Walker
October 2, 2015
I am so sad for all of us. She was a special, fun-loving, fun person, and she will be missed. I remember going to Camp Seafarer with her many years ago. She always made me laugh. May God bless us all.
Sheila
October 2, 2015
You gave so much of yourself to so many, Elizabeth. Your legacy is the tireless way you served others. Praying for God's peace and comfort for all who knew you and loved you. Praying your soul has found rest, sweet girl.
Andrea Carter
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth i wish i could get one last warm hug. You always made me feel so good, just being around you! I enjoy all the crazy college & high school memories we shared. You were a treasure and i just wish i could have seen you more in recent years. I delight in having known you. My sincere sympathies to your family for their loss. Truly Elizabeth stands out amongst all who knew her as a bright, warm, sincere, curious soul. It grieves my heart.
Ann Stewart Pendergrass
October 2, 2015
The world will be less bright without you, EJ. You were so very special and so very loved. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Richard Rigali
October 2, 2015
You opened my heart to care for the people I meet everyday. I'm sorry you had to go.
Bobby Brantley
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth was so amazing at what ever she put mind too. I learned a lot from her and loved her dearly! My sympathy goes out to her family during this difficult time.
Ruth and Bob Stickley
October 2, 2015
Our hearts go out to Elizabeth's family. We are thankful to have known this loving , talented person. Peace and Love. Elizabeth
Chrysty Beverley Fortner
October 2, 2015
Sending love and healing to your family and anyone who ever had the pleasure of knowing you. Your light shone bright...and still does in our hearts.
Elizabeth Poynter
October 2, 2015
I'm so honored to have worked with and known you. To say you'll be missed is an understatement. Love and prayers to your sweet family.
October 2, 2015
My thoughts are with her family and others grieving this untimely loss. She did my wedding in '07 and was one of a kind, as we all know. I'm grateful for the time I spent with her and I hope we can all learn something from the way she lived her life and touched others. RIP, Elizabeth.
Beth Raebeck Hall
October 2, 2015
Heartbroken . Our thoughts and prayers are with your family dear Elizabeth. You
are so special to so many, dance with the angels!
Beth and Alan Hall
Christie Swanbeck
October 2, 2015
Heartbroken. It is to soon to lose your bright, warm and loving light. Sending prayers to your family and praying you are at peace.
Parnassus Books
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth was a regular fixture in the community of book lovers at Parnassus Books, and we are desolate with the loss of such a beautiful soul. Our hearts are broken, and we offer our deepest condolences to those who loved her. We are all the lesser without her in the world.
Always, Your friends at Parnassus
Beth Adams Scott
October 2, 2015
The world needs more giving, caring, creative, wonderful people like Elizabeth. I am blessed to have known you. You are greatly missed.
Cathy
October 2, 2015
Oh, that smile!!! May flights of angels guide thee! Deepest sympathy to her family - and extended family! Darlin' Elizabeth...you were SO loved.
October 2, 2015
There are no words for the sadness of this loss. This day has been dark. My heart hangs low. I adored her. Elizabeth walked me/us through every detail of our wedding along with my parents. She was a true advocate for her brides. She called, she left messages, she looked out for me, she perfected every detail. We laughed a lot and we collaborated as a group. She was outstanding and beautiful, sharp and clever. I miss her already.
"AS IMPRISONED BIRDS FIND IN FREEDOM
WINGING WILDLY O'ER THE HEIGHTS
OVER FOREST AND ORCHARDS GREEN,
ON AND ON AND OUT OF SIGHT."
Catherine Treadway Morris
October 2, 2015
Whenever I saw Elizabeth, she radiated warmth. She was truly as kind as she was talented and beautiful, and she will be dearly missed. Our loss is surely heaven's gain. Until we meet again, sweet friend...
Laura Bowen
October 2, 2015
Jim and I were so fond of this extraordinary woman and blessed that she did our wedding. We are heartbroken at her loss and will miss running into her smiling face.
Langford Barksdale
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth, always a joy! May God's angels surround you and bring you love + life like you brought to all of us! You will always be cherished. Lots of love + hugs to your family + friends. You will be greatly remembered + deeply missed. I am so thankful to have you in my life. May you live on in peace, honor, and glory through Christ!
Kimberly White
October 2, 2015
Your beautiful smile always lit up a room and warmed many hearts.
Randall Martin
October 2, 2015
You are such a passionate and beautiful lady. I'll miss your sweet smile, hugs and kisses. I will definitely be thinking of you at Christmas time. Until we meet again.....
Margaret King
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth was truly a light in this world. Someone who you couldn't help but gravitate towards. A kind, loving and beautiful soul. Oh, she will be so deeply missed.
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth, you were always such a joy to work with when I played with the Pat Patrick Band. May you Rest in Peace my friend.
Chip Peay
Jill Peters Fuller
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth's personality and laugh were contagious, and she had this amazing mischievous little grin that could make anyone smile. She was so warm and so beautiful, and was a light to everyone she met. She will truly be missed. We are lifting her family and all who adored her up in prayer, and asking for God's comfort and peace to fill us all.
October 2, 2015
Our family loved Elizabeth dearly and cannot imagine the void that will be felt far and wide without her here on this earth. We became acquainted first as business colleagues through George Sloan then developed a friendship. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to all of her precious family and friends at this unimaginable time of loss and grief. -Lori, Lenny & Millie Grasso
Libby Sieveking
October 2, 2015
I am in shock, and like all who knew her, heartbroken that her bright light is gone. I just wish I could tell her how deeply she was loved. Peace to you Elizabeth and prayers to her family.
Lee Owen
October 2, 2015
Sending love to the James family.
Margo Pendarvis
October 2, 2015
It was such a blessing to have reconnected with you recently, Elizabeth. Tammy has such warm memories of her friendship with you. We wish you eternal peace in the loving arms of God, and our hearts and prayers go out to your family.
genia gilchrist
October 2, 2015
Oh one of the sweetest ladies ever.. You will be missed by so many.. prayers to your sweet family...xoxo
Helen Close
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth's smile and laughter will never be forgotten. She touched so many lives with her caring, loving, giving spirit. Sending love to the James family & the Whitson family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Schoeffler
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth, Was such kind, loving person with a sparkle all her own. We will miss her dearly. My heart goes out to her family and everyone else who loved her.
Judy Bistany
October 2, 2015
What a bright, shining, joyous light we have lost ..
October 2, 2015
Elizabeth's gifts and talents were many but her true gift was to light up a room when she entered and when she exited - all encountered felt her kind and very caring spirit - a true professional and a truly good person as well. Too few people in the world like her and now one less. Peace Elizabeth peace.
Mary Dabrowiak
October 2, 2015
"I Did Not Die"
Do not stand at my grave and forever weep.
I am not there; I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and forever cry.
I am not there. I did not die.
Author: Mary Frye
October 2, 2015
A smile, a wink, a laugh, with a beautiful light radiating from within; that is how I will always remember Elizabeth. You will be terribly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Beth Martin Clark Melin
October 2, 2015
Good human being, RIP and my your soul be at peace
Debbie Carroll
October 2, 2015
One of the most beautiful people I've ever met. I'm so honored to have known you and loved you Elizabeth.
Debbie Carroll
October 2, 2015
One of the most beautiful people I've ever met. So honored to have known you and love you Elizabeth.
Lisa Campbell
October 2, 2015
My good friend, I will never forget so many good times and special events that you made happen for me and my family. You gave so freely and cared so much for everyone. I will remember you with love. How sad we are that you are gone. Peace be with you my friend.
Sharon Troth Gaffney
October 2, 2015
I am so sad to hear this news. Elizabeth was a beautiful woman, always friendly and open. She will be truly missed, a light in this world has been lost. Thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.
Humphrey & Kelleya White
October 2, 2015
Your talents and gift can never be duplicated; however, your spirit will continue to be a light throughout every event you touched. To the family of Elizabeth, may God's hand comfort you during this time of loss.
Teri Wilkins
October 1, 2015
Elizabeth was such a bright and beautiful person with enormous talent! Blessings of peace to her family and friends.
Ashley Rosen
October 1, 2015
The most giving, talented, beautiful and genuine person I knew. WOW!!! I miss you so much! SO SO sad.
Whitney Eccher
October 1, 2015
Elizabeth was such an amazing person and I truly enjoyed working with her! She will be missed terribly in the community. Rest in peace!!
Lin Andrews
October 1, 2015
Till we meet again., I will always miss your beautiful, smiling face. You probably never knew just how admired and loved you were by so many people of all walks of life. It was a great gift you gave to me by giving me a hug and saying "I love you" as I walked out after dinner Sunday night, and I am so glad that my last words to you were "I love you more." Beautiful Elizabeth, we all love you and will never forget you.
Laura
October 1, 2015
Heart of an angel and the patience of Job. We will miss you here on earth but will rejoice when we meet again.
Martha Heston
October 1, 2015
What a beautiful person inside and out. She was a good friend who will be missed.
Kerry Wilson
October 1, 2015
Your beautiful smile will brighten the heavens, sweet friend.
Charlie & Lane Cross
October 1, 2015
Another angel is in heaven watching over mankinfd. Elizabeth loved everyone, and she especially touched my life. May she rest in peace, knowing that she made a difference in so many lives. I love you , Elizabeth! Charlie Cross
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