December 24, 1959 – September 14, 2023
Elizabeth 'Libby' Dixon Laitinen, age 63, of Huntsville, AL, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2023, in Huntsville, AL. Libby was born in Chattanooga, TN, December 24, 1959, and moved to Knoxville, TN where she lived her formative early years and graduated from Holston High School in 1978.
Libby was a spirit filled young girl who loved her grandparents and her great grandparents Nanna and Popsi. She enjoyed growing up in the church at First Baptist Church (Knoxville), was part of the high school flag team, and enjoyed family time up at the family cabin in Gatlinburg. She then traversed to Johnson City, TN to attend East Tennessee State University (ETSU) where she would later meet her husband, Carl, who was attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. They would marry and travel to Clearwater, FL, Huntsville, AL, Austin, TX, and back to Huntsville with Libby always by her husband's side creating a wonderful home for the family and also creating a wonderful world of friends outside the home. Along the way Libby raised 3 boys, all married to daughters-in-law whom she adored, and never missed an opportunity to spoil her four grandchildren. Libby never knew a stranger and would help anyone at the drop of a hat. She so loved her family, was a wonderful Christian woman, and was a very devoted Tennessee Vol fan.
Libby was predeceased by her mother, Margaret Ann Dixon 'Grams' and her father, George Herbert Dixon 'Pop pop'.
Libby is survived by her husband, Carl Laitinen; sons, Matthew Laitinen (wife, Jennifer and kids, Parker and Addie), Andy Laitinen (wife, Kaiti and kids, Derek and Harper), and Erick Laitinen (wife, Shelby). Libby is also survived by her sister, Cathy Johnston (husband, Kevin) and brother, George H. Dixon III.
Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to be followed by the funeral service from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Huntsville, AL with the Rev. Travis Collins officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (cancer).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Vicki Knotts
October 31, 2023
Libby was a wonderful, thoughtful, and friendly lady. I had the pleasure of meeting Libby when I was fortunate enough to teach all three of her sons in middle school. Libby was an active, endearing lady and a pleasure to be in her company. I extend my deepest condolences to Carl, Matthew, Andy and Eric. Libby and her sons were a bright light in my life and I´m eternally grateful for them.
Debbie (Cash) Pratt
October 8, 2023
Libby and I were high school friends. We spent many days laughing, planning, and learning together. While her untimely death hurts my heart, Libby was the strong one and would tell me to get my chin up and remember her for the friendship and love she shared with all of us. I know I´ll see you again one day, my sweet friend!
Cheri Sullivan
September 25, 2023
Libby was such an inspirational friend! She loved my children like her own and treated my son and his wife like they were the most wonderful people in the world. I have leaned a lot from Libby about showing love to people. She will carry a warm place in my heart and a smile will touch my lips when ever I think of her.
Howard Holcomb
September 25, 2023
I had the pleasure of meeting Libby twice. You couldn't help but smile after talking with her. She is the sweetest and most easiest person to talk with and was very genuine. She has such a positive effect on everyone she met. My deepest sympathies to the Laitinen family. God bless.
Emily Miller Mayes
September 24, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear about our dear Libby. Her joyful spirit and warm heart made growing up on Sharpsburg so memorable and fun. She will always hold a special place in my heart. Sending you all our love and prayers.
Joni Tyson
September 22, 2023
Loved you Libby always was fun and a joy to be around. Always had a smile and big hug for anyone. Always made me feel
Welcomed even if we hadn´t seen each other for long time
Rest in Peace.
Diana Lopez
September 22, 2023
Libby was one of a kind! She never met a stranger and would do anything for anyone. I first met Libby when she was still in high school. Her mother was my best friend, and Margaret's children meant the world to me, accepting me as their aunt, although nothing was legal. I watched Libby grow into a young lady, planned the service for her wedding to Carl, saw all three boys grow into men, marry beautiful women, and are now raising their families in the same manner that Carl and Libby set as an example. She leaves a huge void in this world.
Jan Preston
September 22, 2023
Libby was a great person and her smiling face will be missed by many! Thoughts and prayers for her family.
Gina Wampler
September 21, 2023
Libby was a precious classmate. Sending prayers.
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