BRONSON, Fla. — Elizabeth Carol Hickman Gregorek passed away March 29, 2026, in Bronson, Fla. She was surrounded by her family. 

Elizabeth was born on December 25, 1960, in Washington, D.C., and was, in all respects, a Christmas baby. A true Merry Birthday and Happy Christmas. She brought joy to all!

Liz is survived by her husband, Derek Gregorek; her son Tyler Gregorek, his wife, Ashley, and their children, Madeline and Rory; her son Garrett Gregorek, his wife, Jillian, and their children, Bo and June; her parents, Thomas and Carolyn Hickman; and her siblings, Rebecca Garcia and her daughter, Kristy, and Scott Hickman, his wife, Natasha, and their son, Jackson.

Liz graduated from Magruder High School (Maryland) in 1979 and from Elon College (North Carolina) in 1983.

Liz and I dated in high school and we met up again after college. We resumed holding hands and would do so for the next 42 years. We married on March 29, 1986. I know she persevered to the end so we could be together on our 40^th wedding anniversary.

Shortly after our wedding, we moved to Brandon, Vt. We were blessed with two sons. It just didn’t get much better — a perfect family, in a great town and incredible community. It was the place to grow and thrive as a family. Although we called Vermont home, grandchildren prompted our move to Florida in 2025.

Liz thrived in a social environment, whether among family, friends, or colleagues. She had an infectious way of spreading joy and energy. Technically her career was human resources management; she just called it “working with people.” She especially enjoyed her “hobby jobs,” including volunteering at the Chamber of Commerce, Planning Commission, and Nifty Thrifty.

Liz never needed a special reason to gather her friends, but there were a couple of occasions at the top of her list: New England Patriots football games, the Kentucky Derby, just about any holiday, and any day at 4 p.m. for the “Pour at 4.”

My special thanks to family and friends who journeyed to Florida to help Liz with her cancer battle. The smiles you brought to her will never be forgotten. My gratitude and praise to you all will never be enough.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 12 from 2-5 p.m. at the Lilac Inn,
Brandon, Vt.

All are welcome.

Liz asked that donations be made to the Navy Seal Foundation, 1619 D Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23459 or online at Navysealfoundation.org/donate/.