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 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 in our community at Christmas time, arts and crafts of all mediums, poetry and horseback riding.

Her one big advantage in life was when she met some people through a chat room and flew to meet them (each coming from a different state), where they gathered for a week and formed long lasting relationships.  She continued her adventures traveling to 7 other states meeting and enjoying people along the way.

Family and friends in Elizabeth’s life she felt supported her throughout different times in her life and was very grateful to have had them… Justine Thomsen, Jenny Coleman, Ian, Amy Woodard, Tami Hamilton, Debbie, Randy, The HOPE Center and Dalina her best friend.  Some I may be forgetting or am unaware 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 Mabel Phillips. 

She is survived by her faithful and loving companion Mazzie (who misses her daily), her half-sisters Justine (Cory) Thomsen, Sherri (Scott) Lesley, nieces and nephews Kelsi, Cody, Charis, Cole, Shawna, Justin. Breanne, Deanna. McKenzie, Chloe, Julianna. She is also survived by Aunt Jan Workman, her great nieces and nephews, 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 the grief of losing her parents 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 memory of and in honor of Elizabeth.  Please bring your favorite story and dishes to share on August 3rd, 2024, from 11 to 1 at Rohner Park, Fortuna. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please make a donation to your favorite animal shelter in Elizabeth’s name.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Elizabeth Steyn’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.