Elizabeth "Liz" Terwilliger, 54
CUMBERLAND - Elizabeth "Liz" Terwilliger, 54, died Wednesday morning, July 6, 2016, at her home in Cumberland.
Elizabeth was born in Burlington, Vt., on August 16, 1961. She was the daughter of Donald and Alice "Gail" Reed. She grew up in Brandon, Vt. and graduated from Otter Valley Union High School, class of 1979. She continued her education in Burlington, first attending Champlain College and then transferring to the University of Vermont from which she graduated in 1984 with a bachelor's degree in physical education. She later received an associate's degree from Champlain College in respiratory therapy.
In 1988, she married David Terwilliger in Brandon. Liz was the devoted mother of two sons, Jack and David, whom she adored. Liz was an inspired cook and worked as a sous chef in several Burlington area fine restaurants before becoming a respiratory therapist. She was highly regarded by co-workers in her career as a respiratory therapist in Burlington, and later at Southern Maine Medical Center and Mercy Hospital in Portland.
Liz enjoyed the arts, gardening, and the ocean. She was a gifted ski racer in high school and enjoyed several outdoor sports. In recent years she discovered more talent and fell in love with creating handmade goods in her workshop.
Liz is survived by her sons, Jack Terwilliger of Santa Monica, Calif. and David Terwilliger, II who attends the University of Maine at Orono; her brother Donald M. Reed and his wife Sue of Jeffersonville, Vt., her sisters, Alison Palmer of Brandon, and Margaret G. Reimers and her husband Gary of Texas; and her former husband, David Terwilliger of Cape Elizabeth.
There will be a small a celebration of her life on Monday, July 11, 2016, at 10 a.m. at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth for family and close friends.
Please visit www.advantageportland.com to sign Liz's guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram on Jul. 9, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Elizabeth Terwilliger

Sponsored by Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services – Portland.

16 Entries

Bonnie

April 2, 2024

I am back again, to share my love and fond memories of Elizabeth. Not a month goes by that I don´t think of her. To this day her absence leaves a heaviness in my heart. I live each day to the fullest, in the hopes that she realizes how much she inspired me.

Bonnie Schnabel

July 3, 2020

Even now, 4 years later. Theres not a month that goes by without thinking of Liz. She has served as an everlasting reminder for me of the importance of truly connecting with people, and to cherish the moments we have. I regret not knowing her better. I regret that I didnt think to reach out. But I remember Elizabeth as the bright and beautiful soul that gave so much to everyone around her. It's that kindness that I try to pass on in her memory. Thank you Liz.

Trish O'Sullivan

August 3, 2016

I was so sad to hear of Liz's passing. What a loss for Mercy. Prayers for her family, especially her sons. May their happy memories help them through this painful time.

Bonnie Schnabel

July 11, 2016

I met her once; she had us as guests in her home and toured us around Maine for a fabulous time at Silly's and at the beach. She was so sweet and kind, I can hardly believe that shes gone. I regret that I did not spend more time with her, but also cherish my short visit. Her energy was truly inspiring.

Cindy

July 11, 2016

Liz was a truly gifted caregiver. A gentle and generous soul who laughed easily. May loving memories of a devoted mother bring solace to Jack and David.

Dayle Rozicki Kenyon

July 11, 2016

I went to high school with Liz and played in the band with her. My prayers for her family

Suzanne Kirby DeFelice

July 11, 2016

I went to high school with Liz. I'm so saddened and my thoughts are with her family and especially her two boys.

Lou Calvo

July 11, 2016

Liz was an amazing respiratory therapist and friend. She always cared so much for those around her. It wasn't uncommon for her to defer her breaks to help others with their patient treatments. Her patient's loved her and raved about her kindness and expertise. We could not have had a better coworker.
Her boys were ever on her mind with conversation about where they went and the next big adventure. Skiing, boarding, surfing, biking...she was everywhere with the boys at her side. She loved those boys more than anything in life.
Her time here too short but we all wish her peace. She was a dear soul who will be missed.
Condolences to her family.

Cheryl Gerrish

July 10, 2016

So sorry for your loss, Coworket from SMMC Cheryl Gerrish

rach lyons

July 10, 2016

so sorry for your loss.she was wonderful to work with at SMMC

Robert Grant

July 10, 2016

I am truly saddened by this. Liz was a beautiful person inside and out.

Gail Bruns

July 10, 2016

My sincere condolences to Liz's family. Having worked with her many years I can truly say that she was a natural-born caregiver who brought so much comfort to those in need. I saw her work her magic many times, and it was always a result of much more than a tweak of the oxygen therapy. She certainly did know her business well, but the caring and kindness she bestowed on her patients (and her co-workers) was beautiful to see. She wasn't here nearly long enough, but she made a difference.

July 10, 2016

With deep sympathies. You will be missed. Kelly Collins RN

Edward Sweet

July 10, 2016

That bright smile and marvelous eyes... Gone too soon Liz.♥

Pat Peck

July 9, 2016

My heart goes out to her two boys, family & friends. Liz was a very kind & caring woman to her patients & co-workers @ SMMC

Maureen

July 9, 2016

So sad. I remember Liz. Beautiful person. Go in peace, Liz. You were a giver and took care of people. Bless you.

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