NORTH GRAFTON, MASSACHUSETTS
Elizabeth “Libby” Fox died peacefully on September 1, 2024, at her home in North Grafton, Massachusetts, after an eighteen-month long battle with cancer. She was 72. Libby is survived by her husband of 50 years, Mark, daughters Natalie Gehrig and Sarah Fox Ruddell, grandchildren Ella Gehrig, 12 years and Oliver Ruddell, 8 months, and beloved Boston Terrier Suzy.
Libby grew up in Columbus, Indiana with four siblings and parents Natalie and Dale Roll. She married Mark whom she met in high school. Shortly afterwards, she and Mark moved to Westborough, Massachusetts and made New England their home. Libby and Mark created a chosen family of friends in New England, but always prioritized their children having a connection with their large, close-knit, chaotic extended family in Indiana. Libby doted on her two grandchildren and was a loving “Mimi.”
Libby didn’t just navigate life; she shaped it, shattering glass ceilings in her career as an IT Executive, paving the way for others with her remarkable resilience and determination. She could command a room in a male-dominated industry, while wearing a stylish power suit to boot. Libby instilled in her two daughters the values of strength and independence, guiding them to become confident, self-reliant women.
In her retirement years, Libby filled her time with friends and extended family, reading, rug hooking, baking for her neighbors, and taking long walks. She found peace at the ocean and with her family. Libby lived life on her own terms full of love and joy. She truly embodied the words of William Ernest Henley, “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.”
Her strong willpower, bravery, and selflessness were unwavering, especially in her most difficult times. She never missed a birthday or a thank you, always sending a Papyrus card along with her favorite printed photos, even in her final days. In keeping with Libby’s wishes, no formal services will be held. She always put others before herself, and it is keeping with that selflessness that we instead invite you to honor her life and legacy by making a donation in her name to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute via dana-farber.org/gift.
She will be missed by all.
