Candice's obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Candice Ellazora. She peacefully passed away December 20, 2023. Born in 1936, Candice lived a fulfilling life characterized by the passion, warmth, care, love, and an overwhelming support for those around her. Her love even affected those who didn't know her.
Candice is survived by her sister, Mia Ellazora, brother, EJ (Elijah) Ellazora, son, Zay Ellazora and grandson, Othniel Goodman. Her love and memory will forever remain in the hearts of her beloved family.
A woman of exceptional intellect, Candice graduated from Bethune-Cookman University in 1964 with a Bachelors in Psychology. She knew the struggles and lack of support for the mental health of black americans and wanted to make a change. In 1968, she welcomed her son Zay Ellazora into the world. Just a year after, in 1969, she married her high school sweetheart and love of her life Antonio (deceased). Candice's family grew bigger in 2004, with the arrival of her adored grandson Othniel.
Candice was a woman of unique interest and taste. If you knew her you know she couldn't go a day without watching episodes of her favorite TV shows - 'In the Heat of the Night' and 'Bonanza'. Her love for traveling often led her to her favorite vacation spot and safe space in Hawaii. She was a seafood loved, and loved her some snow crabs and cod. She would mostly end her nights eating a slice of key lime pie, while sipping on iced tea specifically with two packs of sugar and a slice of lemon.
She found peace in reading the Bible and sewing. She also loved listening to Al Green. She had a vinyl collection of all of his albums. She loved making an evening out of watching 'Coming to America' or watching and cheering for her college football team, the Bethune Cookman Wildcats. Her favorite color, purple, reflected her personality in and out – warm and vibrant.
Ask anyone who knew Candice and they would tell you how bubbly, understanding, wise, and warm she was. No matter what she made sure she made everyone around her feel safe and loved around her. She also shared the greatest lesson that she knew to everyone. How to love. Among her greatest accomplishments, she counted her son and grandchild, testaments to the powerful love and care she provided.
Candice leaves behind a legacy of smiles and love. Her radiant personality will be remembered by everyone she knew, as she continues to live in their hearts. And while her physical presence will be sorely missed, her spirit lives on in the lives of those she touched and in a better place. We love you Candice.