Elizabeth Lael Fucci

Elizabeth Lael Fucci, (nee: Allison,) known affectionately as Liz, departed this world on August 13, 2024.  Born December 23, 1943, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Liz blossomed into a brilliant, artistic soul, marked by her sensitivity, an insatiable curiosity, and a keen sense of humor.

Liz grew up in Kitsap County, Washington, where meandering miles of abandoned logging roads became her riding trails. With her sister Virginia (Gini) J. Schuster, currently retired in  Ocean Shores, WA., she reveled in the joys of childhood, nurturing a variety of animals—poultry, rabbits, goats,  a calf, and an array of cats! Soon after they added two horses, "Twang" and "Diablo" to their menagerie.  Hours of trail rides, filled with laughter and freedom to explore created a bond that time and distance would never sever.

Although intellectually and artistically gifted, Liz was a "late bloomer". She  graduated from South Kitsap High School in Port Orchard, Washington in 1961,  joined the Air Force and specialized in nursing. During these years, she learned to play the guitar, sang and composed a variety of folk songs. She was a member of the ORION fan club, a group celebrating the memory of Elvis, the "King". She was a big fan!

After her discharge, she met and married Michael Fucci. This union did not last. Later, after her divorce,  Liz ventured forth to Virginia, where she enrolled in the University of Virginia. There she earned both her undergraduate and Master’s degrees in Business Administration. She subsequently worked front desk for a major wine importer, a job she truly enjoyed.

Liz’s love for life extended beyond academia and into her deep compassion for creatures great and small. Her numerous pets, included dozens of pet mice, a curious iguana, and the bevy of hamsters she lovingly referred to as "Hammies." She shared countless delightful moments tending to these "Hammies" alongside her best friend and housemate, Judith Korf. This bond was a testament to a friendship that weathered the years, offering laughter and support, nurturing spirits who understood each other and cared for one another.

After an extended period of absence, in 2006,  Liz joyfully "E-connected" with her sister Virginia and her sister's family,  niece Carolyn M. Spieldenner (Paul), Normandy Park, WA;  and nephews Most Reverend Franklin R. Schuster, Tacoma, WA,  and John C. Schuster, Jr.(Mary), Des Moines, WA.

From Reston, Virginia, she watched this next generation bloom, delighted by the grand nieces and grand nephews—Marie, Karen J. Spieldenner, Joseph, Aaron, Raymond, and John (Jack) R. J. Schuster—all of whom she adored.

Liz is now reunited and at peace with her  parents, Mary E. Stelting and Lt. Col. (retired) Samuel A. Allison. Their spirits celebrate the vibrant journey of a woman who embraced life with open arms and a playful heart.We remember Elizabeth Lael (Allison)Fucci,  an extraordinary woman whose legacy is colored with the beauty of her memories, the warmth of her love, and the indelible mark she left on those who were fortunate enough to cross her path.