Christine Ruth Elias, 56

Christine Ruth Elias, 56, surrounded by her loving family, "was freed from her battle with cancer as her Savior called her home" on March 17, 2009. The sudden onset and rapid progression of the disease has sent shock waves throughout the families who loved Christine, and all whose lives she touched.

Christine was born Dec. 20, 1952, to Chuck and Ruth Weaver in Baton Rouge, La. The arrival of their child was second only to the immaculate conception, for the love and adoration showered upon that child was momentous. Christine's dear daddy died when she was 10, and her mother, Ruth, with the aid of loving, nurturing sisters, raised her with inexhaustible effort and devotion.

Ruth wisely recognized Christine's gift of artistic ability and creativity, and encouraged her to pursue and develop her God-given talents. Christine became an accomplished photographer, excelled in drawing and painting, and became a master calligrapher. Sewing and the fiber arts ultimately became the medium in which she excelled, and countless individuals either wear or display Christine's remarkable creations.

While living in the San Francisco Bay area, Christine met and married Bob Elias. Their honeymoon began Oct. 4, 1980, and literally never ended. Their marriage was known for its spontaneous displays of joy, affection and devotion to each other. They were fly-fishing buddies forever. Life's journey led Christine and Bob from the Bay area to Oregon, Montana, Wisconsin, Palm Desert, and ultimately back to Orange County, Calif., to be close to family.

Christine fell into what was ultimately her greatest joy, being surrounded by her stepchildren and their children. As "Grandma Christine," she lost herself in the love of helping nurture and care for "her grandkids."

Christine's infectious laughter was like music to the ear. Her selfless spirit and genuine interest in each and every person she encountered left an indelible impression. Her smile lit up the room.

Surviving her are Bob, her loving husband of 28 years, and his sister, Barbara; stepchildren, Noah Elias, and wife, Chantel; children, Griffin and Noah, and Amy McGeo, and her husband, Bryan, and their children, Dylan, Miranda and Ivan; also missing the joy of Christine's presence are her aunt, Ethel Jobe; cousins, Michael, Kathleen, and daughter, Jennifer; aunt, Helen Perkins, and husband, Tom, and cousins, Shelley, Pamela and Leslie, along with their spouses.

Additional family and friends will gather for a celebration of Christine's life.

Although she has left our presence, the memory of Christine's laughter, smile, and joy of living will remain in our hearts and minds.