Elsie Marie Middleton

Elsie Marie Middleton, a beloved matriarch and an inspiring community member, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the remarkable age of 97 in Panama City, Florida. Born on December 22, 1927, in Battle Creek, Michigan, Elsie was the daughter of Clarence Roach and Verna Matchett Roach. She grew up in Battle Creek, where she was the first in her family to graduate from high school.

In her early years, Elsie worked as a carhop and later became known as a Kellogg's Girl, showcasing her vibrant spirit and strong work ethic. Following the arrival of her two daughters, she embraced the role of a devoted homemaker, nurturing her family with love and care.

In 1970, Elsie moved to Mexico Beach, Florida, where she continued to play an integral role in her community, becoming a founding member of the Mexico Beach Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. Her commitment to this organization was deeply rooted in her support for her late husband, James O. Middleton, who served as the first Fire Chief.

Elsie enjoyed a range of activities that brought joy to her life, particularly roller skating, which she fondly remembered as the way she met her husband. Together, they danced gracefully on roller skates and shared delightful moments bowling and fishing. Even into her later years, Elsie found satisfaction in cultivating a beautiful vegetable garden and maintaining vibrant flower beds that reflected her nurturing spirit. Above all, she cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, basking in the love of her extended family.

Elsie is survived by her two daughters, Traci Gaddis and her husband Garry of Mexico Beach, Florida, and Terri McFarland of Homosassa, Florida. She was a proud grandmother to Stephanie Cribbs and her husband Will of Mexico Beach, Jennifer Barber and her husband Derric of Lynn Haven, Florida, and Stephen Gaddis and his wife Lindsay of Griffin, Georgia. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Kenzie, Kaiden and Keaton Barber, Emma, Spencer, Olivia and Ella Cribbs, Kyle and Jake Gaddis. Elsie is also survived by her faithful K-9 companion Gabby and many special family friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James O. Middleton, as well as her parents and her siblings: Glen Noggle, Charles Roach, Edith Roach, Betty Roach Ferguson, Edna Roach, and Barbara Roach Kennison.

A memorial service celebrating Elsie's life will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM Central Time at the First Baptist Church of Mexico Beach, located at 823 15th St, Mexico Beach, FL 32456.

Elsie Marie Middleton will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family and her dedication to her community.