Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Elizabeth Velazquez, 44, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on June 12, 2026.
Elizabeth was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, on August 25, 1981, to Nestor and Naomi Velazquez. She was the youngest of seven children and grew up surrounded by a large and loving family.
Elizabeth graduated from Terry Sanford Senior High School in 1999. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Queens, New York, where she began building her life and later welcomed her beloved daughter, Luz. After her daughter started school, Elizabeth worked as a traffic agent for the New York Police Department (NYPD), serving with dedication. Around 2017, Elizabeth returned to Fayetteville, where she continued to be close to family and loved ones.
She was working toward a degree in Business Administration at the time of her passing, demonstrating her determination and commitment to her future. In November 2025, she proudly achieved a significant milestone by becoming a notary public, reflecting her hard work and perseverance.
Elizabeth loved a good laugh and had a warm, joyful spirit that made those around her feel at ease. She loved those around her deeply—celebrating their successes with genuine excitement and offering care, comfort, and concern whenever they faced difficult times. She will be remembered for her kindness, her compassion, and the way she made others feel seen and supported. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and happiness to all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her father, Nestor Velazquez.
Elizabeth is survived by her beloved daughter, Luz Russell; her mother, Naomi Velazquez; and her siblings: Jonathan Velazquez (Kristina), Paul Velazquez (Georgia), Reubin Velazquez (Carolyn), Olive Velazquez (Frederick), Peter Velazquez, and Rachel Velazquez. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, as well as her dear best friend, Rosselyn Roman.
Elizabeth’s life, though cut short, was filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 1pm at Covenant Love Church in Fayetteville. Burial will follow in Rockfish Memorial Park.
A viewing will be held at the church on Monday from 12-1pm, prior to the service.
Arrangements are by Herring Funeral Care & Cremations.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth Mary Velazquez, please visit our floral store.