Suffok, VA  –  Elizabeth Mary “Liz” Rourke, 60, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025 in Suffolk, Virginia.

Liz was born in Queens, New York to Donald James Rourke, Sr. and Angelina “Ann” Rourke, on June 14, 1964.  Liz loved music and dance.  If there was music she was dancing or singing to her favorite songs.  She had a very happy disposition, a great sense of humor and was full of life.

Having been born with Down Syndrome in an era where it was not commonplace to encourage folks with this disability, Liz blossomed under the wings of her parents, siblings, friends, and caregivers.  Everywhere she went, whether to school, day support, or just “out and about”, Liz enjoyed herself immensely.  During the height of COVID, it was hard for us to stop her from wanting to go up to folks and hug them.  No social distance there!

In addition to being predeceased by her parents, Liz was preceded in death by her brother, Donald James Rourke, Jr.  Left to cherish her memory are her siblings, Michael Rourke (Marilyn) and Kathleen Salsbury (Bruce); sister-in-law, Judy; as well as three nephews, Ted, Adam and David (Kelly); two nieces, Anna (David) and Jessica (Will); two grand nephews, Jayden and Levi; two grand nieces, Raven and April; and many, many cousins and friends.

Special mention must be made about Sandi Alston (Jamayel), who was Liz’s wonderful caregiver since November of 2022.  Sandi and Jamayel, along with their “Village” made sure Liz was cared for, happy and thriving in her last years on this earth.  When Sandi and Jamayel’s son, Theodore, was born, Liz finally became a “Big Sister”!  No amount of words can express our love and appreciation for all of them.

Cremation arrangements are being handled by the Cremation Society of Virginia, Chesapeake Office. Friends may give online condolences at www.vacremationsociety.com   A private interment will be in Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY, where she will rest with her parents and brother.

In lieu of flowers, please visit www.ndss.org to make contributions to the National Down Syndrome Society in Liz’s honor and memory.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at a later date.  The family will advise all with the details after arrangements have been made and the obituary will be updated accordingly.

She touched the hearts of everyone she met.  She was an angel among us.  If Liz could tell us one thing, it would be this:  “Are you okay?  I know God.  God loves you!”