Dr. Elizabeth Perez

It is with shattered hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Dr. Elizabeth Perez, 61, of Ocean Township, formerly of Freehold Township, who left us peacefully at her home on Monday, July 14, 2025. Liz's departure has left an unfillable void in the lives of all who knew her, and her light will be profoundly missed.
Born with a boundless curiosity and an open heart, Liz embarked on a lifelong journey of healing and connection. She graduated from Freehold Township High School, and with honors from Boston College with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology before continuing her education at Logan University, College of Chiropractic, Chesterfield, MO. For over 30 years, Dr. Perez dedicated her life to helping others, most recently practicing in Colts Neck at Reactive with her partner, Steve Pucciarelli, where her unique blend of wisdom and gentle care touched countless lives. Beloved by her patients and colleagues, she was not only a skilled chiropractor but also a pioneer in animal chiropractic, extending her healing touch to beloved animal companions.
Liz was a true citizen of the world, a passionate traveler who explored the diverse landscapes of multiple countries. Yet, her deepest connection was always to the outdoors and animals. She found solace and healing in nature, seeing the earth as a source of profound restoration and the ocean as sacred. A dedicated advocate for animals, she frequently adopted shelter dogs, providing them with loving homes and extending her compassionate spirit to every creature, great and small. Her friends often joked about her unique ability to communicate with her beloved fur babies, and she hoped to be greeted by them all on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. Knowing Liz, they have been waiting impatiently for her and will shower her with kisses.
To know Liz was to experience pure, unadulterated kindness. She possessed a childlike wonder, approaching the world with wide eyes and an open heart. She was a "walking Reiki," a testament to her belief in energy, connection, and the profound power of healing. Liz's strong, comforting hugs were legendary, a true tonic that enveloped one's entire being. She was a divine human being-a daughter, sister, aunt, friend, student, teacher, healer, listener, creator, wanderer, seeker, confidant, adventurer, counselor, animal and nature lover, meditator, list maker, and note taker. Every scrap of paper held meaning for her; she was constantly jotting down thoughts, insights from "A Course in Miracles," notes from her chiropractic classes, and even interactions with friends and colleagues.
Liz's life was not about possessions, but about people, meaning, energy, crystals, spiritual places, and genuine connection. She was a beautiful dichotomy-a wise elder with the delightful curiosity of a youngster. Her humor, particularly about her disinterest in pop culture and tech, was infectious. She cared deeply for the planet, trees, plants, and birds. Her Sunday tradition of roasting vegetables and daily chats with neighbors exemplified her deep love for her family, community, and all living things.
Liz leaves behind a profound legacy of love, empathy, and unwavering hope. She is survived by her loving mother, Helen Perez; her devoted siblings, Mark Perez and wife Celisa Perez, Catherine Perez and husband Richard Heyseck, Sara Perez, Dan Perez and wife Jennifer Reed Perez, Thomas Perez; her cherished nieces and nephews, Mia, Luis, Abigail and Oscar and her fur babies Alex, Goldie, Sasha, Joey, and Kermit. Liz was preceded in death by her father, Marcelino S. Perez, in 2017.
Though she is gone, her presence will forever be felt in the grass under our bare feet, in birdsong, and in the still moments when we recall her wonderful voice with that adorable Jersey accent. Liz was magic and wistfulness and strength and searching, and she gave so much love to everyone. For all who knew her, Liz will be forever.
A memorial gathering will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to The Liz Perez Animal Care Fund, c/o the Veterinary Care Foundation, 16504 NW Highway 225, Reddick, FL 32686 or Liz Perez Animal Care Fund - https://veterinarycarefoundation.org/veterinary-practice-donation/?state=NJ&member=NJ101320