Elizabeth Fitzgerald Obituary

Elizabeth "Bess" Naccarato Fitzgerald

February 6, 1946 - January 20, 2025

University Place, Washington - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Elizabeth W. Naccarato Fitzgerald, affectionately known as Bess, who left us on January 20, 2025, at the age of 78.

Bess was preceded in death by her parents, Scott and Jess Walker, her husbands, Gerald L. Naccarato and Lloyd Fitzgerald, and her son, Shawn M. McClatchey. She is survived by her children: Ashley Kraft, Jerry Naccarato Jr., Lisa Suhr, Steven Naccarato, Jeffery Fitzgerald, and Nikki Fitzgerald Woods, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A proud graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Nursing in 1968, Bess began her career as a nurse in hospitals and private practices in South Carolina and Texas. She eventually moved to University Place, Washington, where she worked in an ENT medical practice before discovering her true passion as a school nurse. Bess furthered her education with a master's degree in nursing from Pacific Lutheran University. Bess served the Bethel and University Place School Districts over 15 years, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues with her warmth, dedication, and professionalism.

Her commitment to the nursing profession remained unwavering throughout her career, serving on both the School Nurses of Washington and National School Nursing Annual Conference committees.

Bess's legacy of warmth, kindness, and devotion will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the University of South Carolina School of Nursing, a cause close to her heart.

Bess will be laid to rest with the love of her life, Gerald L. Naccarato, at New Tacoma Cemetery in University Place, WA. A celebration of her life will be held on August 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at New Tacoma Cemetery.