Elizabeth (Watson) Brennan

Elizabeth (Watson) Brennan, age 75, of Essex, passed away August 9, 2016, at The Connecticut Hospice in Branford, following a long and challenging battle with cancer, fighting with strong spirit and dignity. Liz was born September 29, 1940, in Philadephia, PA, the daughter of the late David and Sarah (Denn) Watson. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Ann Zavistoski, but is survived by Ann's family; two nephews, Chris Baker, his wife, Erin O'Neil-Baker and their children, Juliana and Matthew, all of Columbia and Joshua Baker, his wife, Kristina and their son, Ashton, all of Rohnert Park, CA. During childhood her family moved to Waterford. Liz graduated from UConn in 1962 and subsequently worked as a social worker for the State of Connecticut, a career spanning 33 years, first in the Welfare Department and later for the Department of Children and Youth Services. Outside of her work, Liz's interests were varied. A master gardener, Liz took pride in her large flower gardens and had been an active member of the Essex Garden Club. Liz also volunteered as a member of the "Bottoms Up Club", tending the rose garden at the Old Saybrook Historical Society's General William Hart House. She was a devoted pet owner, lover and advocate, and always enjoyed the companionship of all her dogs and cats over the years, though she was especially fond of her French Bulldogs. Another passion was crosswords; the harder and more cryptic, the better. She volunteered for several years as a driver for Meals on Wheels for clients in the Essex area. Liz also enjoyed making and eating gourmet meals and was also an avid reader, and enjoyed sharing her books and meals with her friends. Per her wishes, there will be no funeral services. Those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the Valley Shore Animal Welfare League (647 Horse Hill Rd, Westbrook, CT 06498), Forgotten Felines (P.O. Box 734, Clinton, CT 06413), and/or the Essex Garden Club Scholarship Fund (c/o Linda Newborn, 8 Waterside Ln., Essex, CT 06426)