Elizabeth Forrest, a beacon of courage, creativity, and compassion, passed away on December 7, 2023. Born on May 12, 1940, Elizabeth graced the world with her intelligence and bold spirit for 83 remarkable years.

An epitome of resilience and strength, Elizabeth conquered cancer multiple times, survived three total car crashes, and continuously proved that thriving is possible while surviving, and that age is no barrier to change. She was a woman undeterred by the odds, demonstrating time and again her remarkable will to live a life that served as an inspiration to others, as she was inspired by others around her.

Each chapter of her life, which she called "lifetimes", were lived with vigor and a zest for her present passions. Each of her lifetimes were a testament to her steadfast determination to "turn poison into medicine" and find creative ways to heal all manner of traumas and opportunities that came her way. Elizabeth passionately believed in the power of personal growth and evolution, teaching us that change is not only inevitable, but attainable at any age — a belief she embodied until the end. She was also a proud exemplar of the notion that lineage does not determine one's legacy, instead forging her own path in every step of her long life. 

Elizabeth is survived by her beloved children, Mark McLaren, Matt McLaren, and Maureen McLaren Love, their eight collective grandchildren, as well as her sister, Jan Jacobus. She leaves behind a legacy of indomitable strength, grace in overcoming obstacles, a brilliant creative spirit, and boundless love. Her life and art throughout were an inspiring testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit, and her influence and artifacts will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she has lifted up because of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life in memory of Elizabeth will be held on March 23, 2024, from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley and will be Zoom accessible for those unable to attend or travel. For all those who can join us, please wear your favorite color in celebration of the broad spectrum of hues that lit up her life. All who knew and loved her, or who know and love her descendants, are welcome to attend to remember and celebrate an incredible life well-lived and an invincible spirit that will never be forgotten.

As we share our gratitude for Elizabeth's presence in our lives, we carry her lessons and legacy with us, treasuring the ways she touched our hearts. Her life story serves as an enduring testament to the power of courage and compassion, and a reminder that indeed, Love does win. She is dearly missed, but her spirit continues to inspire those who knew her, leaving us with endless stories to share about what truly matters most, and what is possible, with future generations to come.

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