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Liz Claiborne Obituary
The cause of her death on Tuesday was not immediately known.
Claiborne, who retired from the day-to-day operations in 1989, founded Liz Claiborne Inc. in 1976 along with second husband Art Ortenberg and Leonard Boxer. Their goal was to create a collection of fashions aimed at the growing number of women entering the work force.
''In losing Liz Claiborne, we have not only lost the founder of our company, but an inspirational woman who revolutionized the fashion industry 30 years ago,'' said Bill McComb, CEO of Liz Claiborne, in a statement.
''Her commitment to style and design is ever present in our thinking and the way we work. We will remember Liz for her vision, her entrepreneurial spirit and her enduring compassion and generosity,'' he said.
Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press
135 Entries
ALEXANDRIA HILLCREST
January 6, 2023
ALEXANDRIA H. HILLCREST.
RADCLIFF.
HARVARD LAW.
UNIVERSITY OF TILSA1966
Valenda Newell
October 31, 2016
A designer who changed the way women dressed around the world. LIZ made career clothes that were fashionable and colorful. I loved her clothes and wore them frequently. A ICON in the fashion industry who's name will always be in highlights. RIP
Eric Budowsky
September 7, 2014
An incredible talent and classy lady! God Bless You
Rosie Riviter
April 2, 2012
As one of the first female engineering associates (design eng) at one of my first drafting jobs in a Steel Workers plant in PA circa 1980, We (Men and I) would take turns each day to carry a packet of specifications through the plant to a special press machine. I know this may offend some libbers but.......most days I dressed like the guys in blue slacks and a blouse, very professional! But - On my day to walk through the plant I had 3 cute classy Liz skirt sets. A navy with tiny white flowers top and matching - above the knee skirt, the kind that rises when you spin, was my favorite. On entering the huge manufacturing area and walking down the safety isle the men would all start howling whistleing, you could hear the steel banging and 'klanging', it certainly seemed to make their day. Some wmn might be offended, but being slightly underdeveloped on top with great legs , that skirt suit made me look fabulous. And the round of applause I would get made me feel like miss america, Really. Just yesterday I was spring cleaning in th ceder chest and discarding the old. But once again that blue skirt suit (now 4 sizes too small) was carefully placed back in the Boscovs bag and ceeder chest along with the fondest of memories. Thank you for that Liz, and I'm sure the long gone steel workers would thank you too. It brought a little brightness to a usuialy dirty hot hard days work. Thankyou Thankyou Thankyou.
How you can show support
Helen Pauline
April 1, 2012
"For ms. Liz" For any interview that I went on I always had something of ms. Clairborne on and would get the job, and complements on what I had on. She will be truley missed, for us single women who she made her fashion affordable, and to all her fans that she gave special attention to.
Tandra Watts
January 12, 2012
Ms Liz nobody can come close to your fashion that is timeless. I love all your stuff and will forever my Liz fashions. I was so sad when you passed. May God Bless you & keep you. RIP
jenny hurtado
November 27, 2011
Liz was the best, I love her style and taste
I still purchase all her fashion in garments and bedding,she will always be my favorite designer
Jenny Hurtado (Spring Hill ,Fl)
March 16, 2010
For Liz...
You made "class fashion" affordable.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Delia Laubly
October 13, 2009
I am so sorry for our loss.I really wanted to meet her. All of her designs I could count on. I sort of look like her as whrn she was younger. Any time I would shop for the right garnment, I did not look at lables. After seeing the perfection, I'de say" of course Liz! Everything fit like a glove and made so perfect! I would love to play the part of her. I love designing close. What an inspiration for perfection as Liz is. I hope that her team will not compormise her excellance. Again, I am sorry for our loss and especially those close to her own heart. Yours, Delia Laubly [email protected]
jfazio@gmail.,com /Joe Fazio
October 6, 2009
For Liz...
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
Rebecca White
May 26, 2009
She was a fabulous designer even for someone with not such a fabulous body. I hope her designs live on and on. Condolances to your loved ones and the people who personally surrounded you. May you forever rest peacefully in the halls of glory.
BEVERLY STEVENS
February 4, 2008
SHE WAS ONE OF THE BEST DESIGNER'S EVER. I LOVE HER STYLING CLOTHES DEARLY. I MISS HER AND WEALL HOPE SHE IS NOW RESTING IN PEACE.
Tara Rainsbury
September 24, 2007
You were an inspirational and a smart business woman. Thanks for your contribution of compassion and generosity to this world.
Carmay Claiborne
July 29, 2007
Wish I could have met you!!!
anita THOMAS
July 4, 2007
for 26 years, i wore ms, claiborne's clothes to work. thank you for a job well done. rest in peace.
Susan
July 2, 2007
My sincere condolences to the family of Ms. Liz. As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of so many people who have expressed their caring to you here. She will be remembered and prayed for daily by many people, as they dress in their favorite LC clothing (my most treasured items of clothing are Liz Claiborne designs). She touched so many lives, and brought happiness to those she never knew. May she rest in peace.
July 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort
Kate Lewis
July 2, 2007
Liz Claiborne[ You will be deeply missed].
You had the coolest stuff. I hope that
even though you are up in Heaven.
We can still buy clothes with your
name in it. You are the best.
Peace & love.xxxxoooo
[email protected]
Debbie Williams
July 2, 2007
I did not know Ms. Claiborne personally, but I have enjoyed wearing her many designs of clothing. I wish I could have thanked her personally for creating styles that work for the everyday woman. Heaven is truly dressing with style since she has joined them. To the Family may you find comfort and peace at this time of your loss.
Chaun Mosley
July 2, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
STEPHANIE WOODS
July 2, 2007
TO LIZ CLAIBORNE FAMILY & FRIEND:
MAY GOD KEEP, YOU IN PERFECT PIECE JUST KEEP YOUR EYES STAYED ON HIM, MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU @ YOUR TIME OF LOST
TONYA
July 2, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
U Mahoney
July 2, 2007
Claiborne Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I love and own so many things designed by Liz, from clothes to accessories. I will now cherish them even more.
lori
July 2, 2007
she was a beautiful woman who was very talented. God bless your family and may you rest in peace!
Lisseth Turner
July 2, 2007
Liz's spirit will live forever, not only in her loved one's hearts, but in the hearts of those she beutified and inspired with her classy designs...
A true Liz Claiborne fan... Lisseth Turner
Barbara L. Johnson
July 2, 2007
Liz pioneered and defined the conservative and classy way for a woman to dress. Be it professionally or socially, Liz's designs brought woman to a higher fashion sense in dressing. Her legacy will live forever. Prayers of comfort is expressed to her family and close friends. Thank you Liz for your gifts and contributions to our society.
David Pulsifer
July 1, 2007
She was and is still loved
SHEILA THOMAS
July 1, 2007
SHE WILL BE MISSED
THANKS FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR US
Marianna Robertson
June 30, 2007
I remember like yesterday, a gorgeous royal blue Liz Claiborne dress. I felt like a princess, what a legacy, making women's dreams come to fruition. God's Speed, Liz. You will be remembered.
ray&rosemarie interlandi
June 30, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
joann lockwood
June 30, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Yolanda Hollinsworth
June 30, 2007
I love your style.
Mary Coulter
June 30, 2007
Liz Claiborne's legacy will live on, not only in the name she made for herself with her beautiful styles but also in the way her clothes made women feel. You won't be forgotten.
June 30, 2007
Thank you...
Rest easy. You will be missed.
PHILLIP ZARAGOZA
June 29, 2007
She has gone home. you were an inspiring person and innovative one too.
INDIA MANN
June 29, 2007
LIZ CLAIBORNE WAS AN INTERVERTOR, A TRENDSETTER AND MOSTLY A WOMAN WITH CLASS AND STYLE SHE WILL BE MISSED ..
Linda Sandrey
June 29, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out too the family. She brought some beautiful style too all of us and she will be missed dearly.
lori Long
June 29, 2007
sorry for your loss.
June 29, 2007
I love Liz Claiborne fashions. I can quickly find something I like as long as its by Claiborne. I appreciate and will miss her influence of women's fashion.
June 29, 2007
RIP TO A WOUNDERFUL WOMAN. SHE HAS DONE A LOT.
Mary Smith
June 29, 2007
Women thank you for thinking of them and making it easier to take care of their families. Your loved ones can have hope and comfort. God promised a resurrection of those in the memorial tombs.
Sue Jefferson
June 28, 2007
Good bye to a women of true class. You shared with the world your wonderful talents.Thank you Ms Claiborne for helping woman all over the world feel better about themselves.
KAHLA JACKSON
June 28, 2007
TO A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN AND HER LEGACY SHE HAS LEFT IN THE FASHION WORLD.CONDOLENCES TO HER FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND ALL WHO ADMIRED HER .
Mary Jones
June 28, 2007
Condolences to the family of Liz. I am not impressed with many designers clothing lines, but I think hers was always great.
Bless you!
K PITTMAN
June 28, 2007
MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO ALL OF THE FAMILY,FRIENDS, AND STAFF OF LIZ SHE WAS A GREAT DESIGNER AND PERFUME INVENTOR I LOVED IT ALL AND STILL WILL !!!! MAY YOU REST IN PEACE LIZ !!!!!
Linda Whitfield
June 28, 2007
The only clothes that my mother and I could both agree on were designed by Liz Caliborne! I have several pieces from her collection and I love them all. Thank you Liz for all the wonderful clothes and for re-inventing the way that women everywhere shop. May God Bless You and Your family.
Linda Whitfield
June 28, 2007
The only clothes that my mother and I could both agree on were designed by Liz Caliborne! I have several pieces from her collection and I love them all. Thank you Liz for all the wonderful clothes and for re-inventing the way that women everywhere shop. May God Bless You and Your family.
Cindy Bryan
June 28, 2007
May God Bless your family, friends and the millions of people you touched with your sense of style and elegance, you will be deeply miss by all....
June 28, 2007
what a special lady,i have a valoria outfit i wear i love it,
you will be missed.love your fan .
Sonya Martinez
June 28, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Iris Fleat
June 28, 2007
The 120 residents of Carrollwood Care Center send their thoughts and prayers to family and friends of Liz Claiborne. The sophiticated lady who showed it in all her designs.
Audrey Feldman
June 28, 2007
Some 37 years ago or so I met Liz Claiborne on the beach in Zihuatanejo. She was vacationing there with her husband and had recently started her company. We were staying at the same hotel and had several very entertaining conversations. Both Liz and Art were such friendly, open individuals with a great sense of humor. A short time later Liz's wonderful clothes made a splash on the fashion scene. Over the years I've acquired lovely pieces from her collections and I treasure them as I do the fond memory of our meeting.
Jeff krohn
June 28, 2007
I worked for this company and it was one of the best SHE will be MISSED by all
Tia Hall
June 28, 2007
Ms. Liz Claiborne,
You were a woman of essence with fashion that you gave to the world from the past to the present. Your work will continue to live on in the future. So you have left behind a legacy for generation to generation. Thank you Ms. Claiborne for your hard and dedication. May you find sweet rest for your soul.
Billie Ravert
June 28, 2007
May Liz rest in peace. Her fashions will live forever.
Billie Ravert, Pensacola, FL
Luz Nunez
June 28, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
PAT BOHANNON
June 28, 2007
PRAYERS TO THE FAMILY
Patricia A Jublikhan IA
June 28, 2007
My Dear Friend Liz,
May God Bless You Now and Always.
Barbara Rosson
June 28, 2007
I have worn Liz clothes since they first came out, and will continue to do so. The stlye, quality, fit and price are great. People can look at you and tell that you have a Liz on. The fashion world has lost a great person in Ms.Claiborne.
Nellie Stroud
June 28, 2007
Ms Claiborne will really be missed, I have purchased several of her garments.To the family may you find strength in knowing that God has just picked one of his beautiful flowers from the garden.Take comfort in knowing that you're se her again one day.
Lisa
June 28, 2007
I have very fond memories of being an 18-year-old in 1986, landing an internship with the Air Force, and saying to my friends, "I just bought my first Liz!" Thank you Liz Claiborne for making women's business and casual business attire fashionable. Your memory lives on in us all, Lady Liz!
Grace Marie Fusco
June 28, 2007
I am deeply saddened to hear of the departure of Liz Claiborne. Our condolences to the entire family and close friends of Ms. Claiborne. I do hope there is someone that can continue with the Claibornes with her style and comfort. All my life I could never wear sandals until one day I put on a pair of Liz Claiborne sandals. Now, when I go on my outlet shopping trips, I spend $200 or more on as many Liz Claiborne sandals as my suitcases will hold. Not to mention her fashions. We will miss you and God rest your soul.
Yolanda Valdez
June 28, 2007
My condolences to the family.
carolyn jackson
June 28, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jo Robinson
June 28, 2007
When I started working in 1977, business clothes for women were just not there. Liz made all that change. I treasure my old Liz suits and keep them well preserved. I have a little black dress of hers I've worn for over thirty years, and it still looks great. I will miss her wonderful fashion sense and devotion to working women. Rest in Peace Liz, you've earned it.
Tricia O'Day Kraljic
June 28, 2007
My condolences to Liz's family - especially Art - my first job out of college, I worked in their corp office assisting their admin's(Kim and Lee) with personal and bus correspondence during the mid to late 80s. Memories that I thought were forgotten have resurfaced since I heard the sad news! May Art receive the heartfelt support that he deserves - their generosity to those in need left a lasting impression. Truly a class act!
Kim
June 28, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Frances Chambers
June 28, 2007
Your sense of class will always be remembered! Thank you so very much.
Grace Hickenbotham
June 28, 2007
Thank you for your designs, they reflect your passion and style.
You are an Angel !!!
Pam Bachman
June 28, 2007
We have lost one of the greatest designer of sharp looking, practical clothing for women. I buy only her separates; they run so true to size I can buy without trying them on. Pam Bachman, DeLand,Florida - middle school teacher
Carol Collier
June 28, 2007
This woman's creativity and design turned my life around. She made model's clothes for the common woman. As a tall, skinny kid, who had no dates in school, whose clothes never fit right, I hated being me. Ms. Claiborne's work was the biggest part of what made me feel and look beautiful. I have since even done some modeling... all HER designs. I will miss her.
AM B
June 28, 2007
Words can not express what I feel with your passing. In life, you had the grace and fire of elegance that made even the most strict chic, cock an eyebrow. I felt that when ever I modelled your line. It brought something out within me others couldn't. And it made me smirk. You mentioned this to me in a show many years back........I will never forget. We love you, we will miss you.
Stacy Jackson
June 28, 2007
I have been reading these entries and one thread follows. She was a silent part of many peoples lives for many different times and events. These entries are posted at legacy.com. What an amazing legacy she left for her family knowing that she became such a large part of so many peoples lives all over the world. Most of us leave a small mark in our small world. She left an indellible mark that will live on for generations to come.
Geraldine
June 27, 2007
May God keep and comfort Liz's family during this time of bereavement.
Sharon Holloway
June 27, 2007
Hers were the first designer clothes for the full figured women, I still have my fleece pj's, they are my favorite and always will be. Liz, I know you are designing gorgeous wings in heaven.
Julia
June 27, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Sheila Smith
June 27, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Stella
June 27, 2007
The world has lost a truly elegant lady that revolutionized the fashion industry.Liz Claiborne,was a woman who defined fashion and style.I loved your fashions and have worn them for many years.You will be forever missed.My condolences to your family and friends.May god bless you,rest in peace Liz.You have left an impact on the world with the gift of great fashion.
June 27, 2007
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
anonymous
June 27, 2007
i look forward to the time the Bible promises as the day of the resurrection. i look forward to one day meeting ms. claiborne here on earth in paradise. she will be able to continue and once again practice her talent of designing clothes. it will be a pleasure to one day meet her under these conditions, and i will be very happy to explain to her that she can now live forever, without ever having to ever die. my condolences to her family.
Barbara Mills
June 27, 2007
I wish to extend my condolences to you and your family. May the GOD of all comfort and tender mercies be with you, always.
CD
June 27, 2007
Liz, THANK YOU for being an inspiration to the fashion industry. During my time in New York City, I remembered your absolute dedication. You are truly an icon to many designers.
Pam Kimbrell
June 27, 2007
May you rest in peace Liz. Your purpose on Earth has been met. I loved your style of fashions. Note to the family - Look toward God for peace and cherish your memories always.
Brittney Howlett
June 27, 2007
Love your Richmond, Virginia Family
Cynthia Dedeaux-Hightower
June 27, 2007
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Jeanne Clement
June 27, 2007
Liz Claiborne was my idle. My whole wardrobe is Liz. My ex husband told me one time it's either me or give up buying Liz clothes..shoes, reading glasses. The list goes on. Liz won. Love ya beautiful lady. The world has lost a classy lady. Jeanne in South NJ
Glenda Ali
June 27, 2007
To the family and close friends of Ms. Claiborne,may God comfort you and keep you in His care and encourage yourselves by keeping her memory in your hearts...
Mary Spearman
June 27, 2007
Nobody could beat Liz C. on style, quality and class!
Frances Jones
June 27, 2007
To the Claiborne family, I was sadden to hear of the death of your loved one she really will be missed. I truly can say she had a style of her own, I purchased several of her handbags and will missed her as well. I hope I can bring some comfort to you at this time of your lost, in the bible book of revelation God said he will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more either pain, nor will outcrys be anymore the former things have passed away. So you see Jehovah has promised in his word the bible that the old enemy death and pain will be gone forever, and he also gave his son the authority to resurrect the dead we will be able to see our love ones again isn't that wonderful if we stay in prayer which draws us close to him he will hear our heartfelt prayers and through our faith and trust in him he will not leave us. I hope these words brings comfort to you and your family.
Debra Barton
June 27, 2007
My sincerest condolences to the Claiborne Family. I had the wonderful pleasure for working for Liz Claiborne in the late 80's and early 90's in the store "First Issue", named appropriately for Liz's husbands' interest in buying stamps that were issued.
I have many of First Issue's clothes yet today, and it never fails that people inquire as to where I purchased it. I must say, I stand and say, " this is from First Issue, and I bought it in Boca Raton, Fla in the 90's.
May God Embrace Liz and your family during this challenging time.
Fondly,
JINETTA
June 27, 2007
GOD BLESS THE FAMILY AND REMEMBER
THAT GOD KNOWS BEST AND DONT QUESTION GOD AND REMEMBER THE LORD WILL NOT PUT NOTHING ON YOU U CANT BEAR AND IF YOU ARE HEADED IN THE WRONG DIRECTION GOD ALLOWS U TURNS
Wendy Anonymous
June 27, 2007
May you rest in peace. Now you can dress the angels in heaven.
ghetonda Mosley-Shertzer
June 27, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
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