Elizabeth Joelyn Santilli

Elizabeth Joelyn "Doe" Santilli, 73, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, in the same city where she was born on December 5, 1951. A devoted mother, sister and friend, Elizabeth will be lovingly remembered for her tireless work ethic, unwavering loyalty, and kind, thoughtful heart.

Growing up in Tucson, Elizabeth-known affectionately as "Doe" - was the devoted daughter of Auty Wilson Duggan and Mary Margaret Duggan. She graduated from Catalina High School in 1969, beginning a lifelong journey defined by perseverance and dedication.

From her early years at Kactus Auto Supply to owning and operating Chassis Auto Parts, Elizabeth built a reputation within the automotive community as a reliable, hard-working, and fair businesswoman.

In 1994, her entrepreneurial spirit was recognized when she was named Entrepreneur of the Year - a reflection of her drive, integrity, and the respect she earned from peers and customers alike. Over the years, she also shared her knowledge and skills through her work with Merle's, Advance Auto Supply, and The Parts Authority.

Beyond her professional life, Elizabeth embodied the joy of simple, meaningful pleasures. She adored softball and enjoyed bowling, spent countless hours in her garden, and found serenity in caring for and riding horses - creatures that reflected her own strength and grace. Her honesty and compassion made her someone people could always count on, whether for practical advice or quiet support.

Elizabeth is survived by her son, Joel Eric Torgerson; daughters, Christy Cay (Bingham) Linson (Marvin) and Cassondra Jolee McCartney; grandchildren, Brandon Linson, Megan Linson, Mackenzie Linson and Laci Torgerson, her grandson Jude Linson and her siblings, Patricia Duggan, Marylou Savage, and Auty Wendy Dahlquist. She was preceded in death by her beloved sister Julia Hoffman and her parents, Mary Margaret (Ricketts) Duggan and Auty Wilson Duggan.

A memorial gathering and bench dedication in Elizabeth's honor will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Agua Caliente Park, 12325 E. Roger Rd. in Tucson. Friends and family are invited to come together to reflect, share memories, and celebrate the life of a woman whose presence enriched so many. Attire is casual and comfortable, suitable for a short walk through the park. Bring a chair and carpool if possible.

Where the trail ends, her spirit rides free.