Greensboro Community Remembers Elizabeth Grace Hefner

News Summary

The Greensboro community is in mourning following the passing of Elizabeth Grace Hefner, a beloved 30-year-old who touched many lives with her warmth and generosity. Known for her deep faith, family involvement, and artistic talents, her sudden loss has left a void in the hearts of her family and friends. Elizabeth’s rich legacy, marked by love and devotion to her daughter Gabriella, will be honored at a special service on December 21.

Greensboro Community Mourns the Loss of a Bright Light, Elizabeth Grace Hefner

On December 14, 2024, the beautiful city of Greensboro, North Carolina, faced a heart-wrenching tragedy with the sudden passing of Elizabeth Grace Hefner, just 30 years old. This beloved member of the community touched the lives of many with her warmth and infectious spirit.

A Life Full of Love and Passion

Born in September 1994 to Pastors Doug and Lori Hefner, Elizabeth’s life was rooted in faith and family from the very beginning. She was baptized at a Community Reformation Service in Newberry, South Carolina, marking the start of her lifelong journey in the church. Just two years later, she welcomed her little brother, Matthew Hefner, into the world, solidifying her role as a caring big sister.

As Elizabeth grew up, she remained extremely active in the various churches her parents served. She was involved in youth ministry, participated in Girl Scouts, and attended numerous youth retreats. Elizabeth even dedicated her time to mission trips, including a national gathering in New Orleans focused on Hurricane Katrina recovery, showing just how much she cared for others.

Talents and Hobbies

Beyond her dedication to faith, Elizabeth had a flair for the arts. She played the viola and shared her musical talent with the Salisbury Symphony Youth Strings program. Sports were also a huge part of her life; she was an enthusiastic player on her middle and high school women’s tennis teams. In 2013, she graduated from Jesse C. Carson High School, continuing to pursue her passions for both business and nursing while juggling a job in retail.

A Loving Mother and Decorator

In February 2012, her life took on a new dimension with the birth of her daughter, Gabriella “Gabby” Rose Bare. Elizabeth’s love for Gabby was palpable, and her strong bond with Gabby’s father, Matt Bare, added a layer of joy to her life. Elizabeth found peace and happiness in home decorating and cooking, skills that she proudly inherited from her mother, Lori. The connection they shared ran deep, and when Lori passed away in 2020, Elizabeth felt her absence profoundly.

Creating Cherished Memories

Elizabeth had a zest for life that shone brightly during the holiday season. She adored celebrating Christmas with her family, and just before her untimely passing, she put a lot of effort into decorating her home and selecting thoughtful gifts for Gabby and other family members. Her grandparents, John and Myrna Van Ravestein, played a significant role in her life, and together they made countless memories at their Lake Norman home and on family vacations at Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

A Loving Family Left Behind

Elizabeth leaves behind a grieving family that includes her father, Rev. Doug Hefner, her brother, Matthew, daughter Gabby, along with her beloved grandparents and extended family. She is now reunited in heaven with her mother, Rev. Lori Hefner, her great-grandparents, and her cousin, Joshua Van Ravestein.

A Time to Remember

To honor Elizabeth’s extraordinary life, a special worship service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Statesville on December 21 at 2 p.m. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation hours from 12:30 until 1:45 p.m. Elizabeth’s family encourages community members to share their condolences, cherished memories, or photographs on the funeral home’s website.

As the Greensboro community comes together to grieve the loss of this bright light, memorial contributions can be made to Grace Lutheran Church, located at 4536 Hickory Lincolnton Highway, Newton, NC 28658. Elizabeth’s kind and loving spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew her.