Elizabeth Ann Whelan Pacelli

1957 - 2025

Elizabeth "Liz" Ann Whelan Pacelli, 67, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025. She was a native of San Francisco and resident of Stockton, California.
Liz was a graduate of St. Rose Academy and went on to earn two degrees from the University of California, Berkeley-an achievement that reflected her intelligence, determination, and passion for learning. On Halloween in 1981, she married the love of her life, John Pacelli. Together they raised their two sons, Dominic and Philip, in the coastal town of Moss Beach before later settling in the valley.
Liz dedicated much of her career to serving others. She worked for the HIV/AIDS program in San Joaquin County before spending 20 years with Lodi Unified School District, where she made a lasting impact before retiring.
A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Liz cherished her family above all. She leaves behind her loving husband, John; her sons Dominic (Brittni) and Phillip (Kim); her adoring grandchildren, Giovanni and Lucia; and her beloved sister, Mary. She is preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Lucia Whelan; her sister, Donna; and her brother, Joseph.
Liz found joy in the simple pleasures of life-quiet mornings in her beautiful garden, the pages of a good book, and treasured vacations at the family cabin on the North Yuba River. She especially loved creating adventures with her grandchildren, who brought her endless pride and happiness. Her loyal Labrador retriever, Emily, was her constant companion and best friend.
Liz will be remembered for her sharp wit, strong opinions, impeccable sense of style, and boundless generosity. She lived with grace, spoke with conviction, and loved with her whole heart. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the friends she inspired, and the many lives she touched.
A celebration of life will be held by her family at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 11th at: Lodi Funeral Home, 725 S. Fairmont Avenue, in Lodi.
A reception will follow at Papapavlos, Lodi at 3:30 p.m. - please rsvp to britpacelli@gmail.com