Elora Beth Duffer, 41, passed away June 22, 2013, at Bellevue Hospital Center in New York City, after a short battle with cancer. She was born on Feb. 14, 1972, in Oklahoma City.

 

Elora received a degree from the University of Oklahoma in Classical Studies and left for New York City soon after. Shortly after moving to New York, she became a loving nanny to her “children,” Caroline and Henry Towbin. Later, she worked many years as a researcher for Gary Giddins, Village Voice music critic and author of many books and articles on music.

 

Elora loved travel, reading, music, cooking and spending time with her many friends and family. She especially enjoyed visiting archaeological sites she studied in school. She impressed everyone she met with her charm, wit, intelligence and love of life.

 

She is preceded in death by her mother, Karen Lea Corlee; her grandmothers, Elora Johnson and Helen Corlee.

 

She is survived by her sister, Cassaundra Elaine Duffer and nephew, James Duffer, both of North Richland Hills, Texas; her father and stepmother, Michael Corlee and Lisa Corlee of Norman; her New York family, Alan Towbin, Lisa Barlow and their children, Caroline and Henry; her grandfathers, Frank Johnson of Tulsa and Lloyd Corlee of Norman; her uncle, Chris Corlee and aunt, Kathy Corlee and cousin, Anna Spray of Norman and Becca Corlee of Tampa, Fla.; her uncle, Gary Johnson and cousins, Clint and Elora Faith; and countless friends.

 

She was surrounded by family and friends at the end. Her final few days were filled with laughter and tears and fond memories shared with those she loved the most. Elora died as she lived, with courage, grace and humor. She will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

 

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the MICU staff of Bellevue Hospital Center, New York City for their loving care and support.

 

A celebration of her life will be held on July 13, 2013, in Brooklyn, New York.

 

If desired, a donation may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society.