Obituary of Elspeth Anderson

ANDERSON, Elspeth (Elly) 84, of Tucson, died January 20, 2017. She was born in Minnesota and moved to Tucson in 1971. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Curt and is survived by her children, Meryn (Cliff) Finity, Peter and Mary Jane (Ken Taylor). Elly fought for women's and reproductive rights all her life. She volunteered at Planned Parenthood of Southern Arizona shortly after moving to Tucson, then became a staff member, retiring in 1991 as director of development. During a short break from Planned Parenthood, Elly founded the Pima County NARAL office in 1980. But Elly wasn't done serving her community yet. She said that one of the happiest times of her working life was supporting Janet Napolitano, first volunteering on Janet's campaigns for Arizona attorney general and governor, then serving in Governor Napolitano's southern Arizona office for four years until her second retirement. Elly and Curt were among the founding members of the Southern AZ Alliance for the Mentally Ill, a cause very close to their hearts. Elly was a trusted friend, mentor, leader, and role model for countless people who shared in the journey for equal rights and mental health advocacy. She volunteered with several women's organizations and was recognized with numerous awards over the years for her tireless advocacy and dedication. No service is planned, donations to Planned Parenthood are appreciated. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel.