In Memory: Elizabeth “Lizz” A. (Clay) Dessureau, Age 89
Elizabeth “Lizz” A. (Clay) Dessureau (September 10, 1933 – June 15, 2023), passed to be with the Lord on June 15, 2023 at Danbury Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, closing fifty years as a Connecticut resident.
Lizz was raised in Rye, New York (Rye High School ’51), thereafter she began her secretarial career at General Foods, commuting in her sleek ’51 green Hudson Hornet which drew a lot of attention. This is when she met her betrothed, William E. Dessureau. Together, they chose Stamford to raise their three children, William working as an auditor while Lizz poured her heart into their family life. Her happiest memories were created while celebrating the holidays with her family. She had quite the holiday spirit and was well known for her handmade decorations that brought cheer to all. Her family will continue these traditions of holiday celebrations that were so special and unique to her.
When settled in Stamford, Lizz restarted her career at Stamford Hospital until she retired after 30 years of service. At home, she relished her role as the family matriarch of her expanding family, with whom she enjoyed close relationships with for the duration of her long life. She cherished daily communications with her children. Didi would play the piano for her via FaceTime (which Lizz often called ‘PlayTime’); Eve would call to discuss the daily drama from their favorite soap operas, and Bill would bring dinner and watch TV with her. She also enjoyed phone calls from her grandchildren regarding their latest adventures.
In retirement, Lizz began her day with crossword puzzles, was an avid follower of pro figure skating and tennis and enjoyed soap operas and Hallmark movies. Her love of gardening was passed on to her kids, along with her appreciation and dedication for music and the arts. Lizz was a painter, illustrator and writer, who often wrote keepsake notes to her family that included her original sketches.
Lizz was born in 1933 to Regina and Andrew J. Clay of Torrington CT. In addition to her parents and husband, William, she was also predeceased by siblings Cleora, Francis, Bernard, Robert, Adeline, and Eleanor, her son-in-law David Horowitz, her grandson David Dessureau, and her beloved kitties Fluffy and Boode.
Lizz will be forever appreciated and dearly missed by her children Deirdre (Randall) Saulnier of Franconia NH, Yvonne Horowitz of Stamford, and William (Trish) Dessureau of New Milford. She was immensely proud of the futures being paved by her grandchildren Nicole (Launa) Inverno, Dean (Lizzie) Dessureau, Ryan Horowitz, Jason Horowitz, Jodi Horowitz, Tiffany Dessureau and Madison Horowitz, and was charmed by great-granddaughter Payton Rose and great-grandson Braydon. She is also survived by her elder brother Edward (Kathie) Clay of Edenton, NC and numerous nieces and nephews. The family is grateful to the outstanding caregivers of Tender Heart Homecare for their professionalism and compassion.
The Dessureau family plans a family tribute this fall for what would have been Lizz’s 90th birthday. Donations in her name would honor Lizz at Whiskers Pet Rescue, Village Center for the Arts.
