In Loving Memory
Elizabeth Pearson
January 1, 1952 – September 25, 2025
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Elizabeth Pearson
Laguna Beach mourns the loss of Elizabeth Ann Pearson, a beloved resident who dedicated her life to the community. She passed away on the morning of September 25 and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Elizabeth was born on January 1,1952 in Fort Benning, Ga. Her father served in the armed forces, and the family moved to Germany, Japan, the East Coast and ultimately to Orlando, Fla.
After she completed high school in Florida, she began work as a secretary. Her people skills led her to her next job working for First Property at Sand Cove Apartments in Orlando, where she met her mentor and godfather, S. Cody Engle. Under his guidance, she rose through the ranks to become the director of marketing.
She became a successful leasing agent for a 1,000-unit property in Charlotte, S.C., as well as a multi-unit property in Jacksonville, Fla. and a high-rise in Cleveland, Ohio. While in Cleveland, Elizabeth earned a college degree at what is now Baldwin Wallace University.
Elizabeth eventually moved to Laguna Beach and dedicated herself to city service. She spent six years as a volunteer on the Planning Commission and another 12 years on City Council, including three stints as mayor. Her commitment to Laguna Beach residents was unwavering.
Among her monumental achievements for Laguna Beach were the negotiations that led to the development of the Montage Resort, her meeting with Dianne Feinstein to seek funds for the rebuilding of the neighborhood after the Bluebird mudslide while helping residents find temporary housing, among her many other accomplishments.
From her days as a volunteer for the Senior Center during their days in the basement of the VFW, she championed and raised tens of thousands of dollars, along with the Quilter family and the city of Laguna Beach for the construction of the Susi Q Senior Center.
Elizabeth was also honored as “Newsmaker of the Year” for her work on the Bluebird Mudslide, as well as named “Woman of the Year” by the Laguna Beach Woman’s Club. She had a genuine interest in the lives of others and touched the hearts of many with her willingness to lend a helping hand.
Elizabeth spent most of her long professional career in marketing and fundraising, including posts with Mission Hospital, Laguna Playhouse and the Pacific Chorale. She was most recently a consultant to homeowners wanting to create an ADU unit.
Elizabeth’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family, friends and the entire Laguna Beach community. Her legacy will continue to remind us of the profound impact one dedicated individual can make.
Her survivors include her brother, Charles Love and his wife Maria, her favorite cousin June Strader, Tracie Martin, niece Kroi Love, nephews Brian and Jason Love, and her beloved dogs Buffy and April.
A memorial service will be held in October.
