Elizabeth Sears

Caledonia-Elizabeth Ann Sears—known to those who loved her as EA, Beth, Mom, Grandma, and “Goose” to her lifelong sweetheart Don—returned home to her Lord and Savior on August 19, 2025.

Born December 21, 1950, in Rochester, New York, to Hugh and Eleanor Robertson, EA made the communities of Scottsville and Caledonia her cherished home for 74 years.

Don Sears, her husband of 55 years, was unequivocally the love of her life—and if you knew anything about her, you knew that. And if you knew anything else, you knew how deeply she loved her family, especially the children she raised with Don: Michael Sears of Yorktown, VA, and Tanya Steele of Caledonia, NY.

But EA also had a passion to make a difference beyond her family.

She began working at General Motors, where she would stay for 30 years—rising from the assembly line to the role of Employee Assistance Professional. There, her warmth, compassion, and ability to connect with others began to flourish. She was particularly drawn to giving voice to those who were often unheard. That passion inspired her to found Workplace Communication, a company dedicated to helping people at every level of an organization communicate more clearly and powerfully.

Her greatest joy in her work came from coaching individuals—whether on the floor or in the boardroom—helping them grow in confidence and clarity. She had a gift for seeing people’s potential, and her patience, insight, and belief in others helped them become more than they ever imagined. Nothing lit her up more than watching that transformation.

A vibrant, exuberant, open-hearted, and endlessly generous soul, EA was known for her unshakable integrity, loyal heart, and effortless way of connecting with anyone from any walk of life. She believed in the power of growth, forgiveness, and service. A lifelong learner, she earned multiple degrees—including a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University at Buffalo—and fulfilled her dream of publishing a book on effective communication in the workplace, a testament to her wisdom and perseverance.

But of all her accomplishments, none meant more to her than her family. EA lit up with joy at the mention of her children and grandchildren, never tiring of sharing their stories and milestones. Her presence was both grounding and radiant—a source of pride, laughter, and unconditional love.

EA is survived by her loving husband, Don; her children Michael (Lori) Sears and Tanya (David) Steele. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Hunter, Forrest (Courtney), Gracie (Mark), Mikey (Anfaal), Timothy (Hummy), Annabelle (Jacob), Sarah (John), Caleb, Philip, and Frederick; and her great-grandchildren: Arianna Sunshine, Olivia, Angel Rose, Kenleigh, Reuben, Andrew, and Sierra.

She is also lovingly remembered by her sister Bonnie (Roger) Howlett, her brother James (Cindy) Robertson, her cherished lifelong friend Betty Brock, and Gail Marie Sears, who remained a deeply cherished part of her family. She leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and members of the community she so deeply loved and served.

In addition to her parents, EA was preceded in death by her sister, Jeanne Earl, and brother-in-law, Andrew Earl.

In honor of EA’s giving spirit, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Huther Doyle Addiction Treatment Center, Gilead School of Discipleship, or any organization devoted to supporting underserved communities.

Friends and Family are invited to call at Alhart Funeral Home, 3068 Main St., Caledonia, on Thursday, August 28, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A celebration of life will take place at First Presbyterian Church, 3080 Main St., Caledonia, on Friday, August 29, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be held privately with family.