Elizabeth Belle Steyn was born June 25, 1977, in Eureka to Martinus and Wanda (Phillips) Steyn. She was 46 years old when she passed unexpectedly.

Elizabeth attended Blue Lake Elementary School and graduated from Arcata High School in 1993. She attended College of the Redwoods, where she took classes in early childhood education, psychology, social work and addiction studies.

Elizabeth had no children of her own, but truly loved all her nieces and nephews with all her heart! Elizabeth adored all children. She was an animal lover. Her hobbies included gardening, card making for the seniors of our community at Christmas time, arts and crafts of all mediums, poetry, and horse backing riding. Her one big adventure in life was when she met some people through a chat room and flew to meet them (each coming from different states), where they gathered for a week forming long last relationships. She continued in adventure traveling to seven other states, meeting and enjoying people along the way.

Family and friends in Elizabeth’s life that she felt supported her, at different times, throughout her life and she was grateful to have had them … Justine Thomsen, Jenny Coleman, Ian, Amy Woodard, Tami Hamilton, Debbie Schooling, Randy, The Hope Center and Dalina her best friend. And some I may be forgetting or not aware of, but you know who you are!

Elizabeth is preceded in death by her parents Martin and Wanda Steyn, half-sisters Kimberly Michaels, Rebecca Driver, her grandparents Gerta Snider, Lohman and Mable Phillips.

She is survived by her faithful and loving companion Mazzie (who misses her every day), her half sisters Justine (Cory) Thomsen, Sherri (Scott) Lesley, nieces and nephews Kelsi, Charis, Cody, Cole, Shawna, Justin, Breanne, Deanna, McKenzie, Chloe, Julianna, Aunt Jan Workman and many cousins. Elizabeth was also God Mother to her niece Kelsi.

Elizabeth battled drug addiction and mental health issues for the last 18 years. She was overcome by grief of her parents’ death and was unable to pull herself up and climb out!

I hope you finally found your way little sister. YOU WERE ALWAYS ENOUGH! I will love you forever,

Your, Sissy

A celebration of life will be held in honor and in memory of Elizabeth. Please bring your favorite snack and story to share. July 20, 2024, at Rohner Park Fortuna 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please make a donate to your favorite animal shelter in Elizabeth’s name.