Elizabeth Eldridge was born on April 18, 1931, in Dumas, Arkansas, to the late Rosie and Mose Handy. There were ten children born to this union, Elizabeth was the eldest of two siblings that survived infancy. She was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Thomas James (T.J.) Handy.

Elizabeth was a resilient, hardworking country girl who labored in the cotton fields and overcame many obstacles throughout her life.

In 1947, Elizabeth was united in holy matrimony with Ashley   Eldridge Sr., and together they began building their family. To that union five children were born. One son, Carl, preceded them in death.

She was a faithful and devoted member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church, where she served honorably on the Deaconess Board. During the Great Migration, Elizabeth opened her home and heart to support family members as they transitioned from down south to the north and progressed to new opportunities.

Elizabeth touched countless lives within her community, showing particular care and compassion for the elderly and children in her neighborhood. She later retired from the Chicago Public Schools, where she left a lasting and meaningful impression on the many children she served.

Elizabeth was a loving and supportive wife to the late Deacon Ashley Eldridge Sr. She was a devoted Christian and the proud mother of her children: Ashley Eldridge Jr, Jeldean Eldridge,  Lawrence Eldridge (Shelley, decreased), and Arlene Finley (James). She was a cherished grandmother of eight grandchildren and James Finley III  proceeded in death. Liz also leaves behind twelve great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly. She also leaves a host of relatives and friends.

Final resting place Miles Leach Cemetery in Dumas, Arkansas. Saturday, January 31st, 2026 viewing from 9:30 am until time of service 10:30 am at St. John Baptist Church, 112 Emily Bowen Drive, Mitchellville, Arkansas 71639.