Elizabeth "Liz" Upton, 72, of Sand Springs, Oklahoma, was born on October 26, 1953, in Sapulpa, Oklahoma, to Claris Louise and Donald Lee Harrington. On September 9, 2026, Liz gained her wings and was reunited with her beloved husband of 50 years, Jim.

After graduating from high school, Liz's brother helped her get a job at Upton's Supermarket in West Tulsa. It was there that she met Jimmy, the man who would become the love of her life. The two were married on September 22, 1973, at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church and began their life together in Sand Springs. They went on to raise two children, Candy and Josh.

Liz worked at Upton's Supermarket until 1989, when she began the career she truly loved. She joined American Airlines in the maintenance department, where she worked as a bill of work planner. Liz was dedicated to her work and took great pride in doing her job well. Apparently, perfect attendance certificates don't stop after elementary school, because Liz earned many of them during her 22 years with American Airlines. Along the way, she made wonderful friendships and created many memories that she carried with her throughout her life. She retired from American Airlines in 2012.

Retirement didn't mean slowing down for Liz. She continued working for several years, spending time at Newfield Exploration before returning to the aviation industry with Lufthansa, where she worked from 2015 until 2020.

Outside of work, Liz found joy in the simple things. She was a wonderful cook, especially when it came to good old-fashioned country cooking. She had a green thumb and loved spending time gardening and watching things grow. She took great pride in her home and the people she loved.

But perhaps Liz's greatest joy was being a grandmother. She was a proud Mamaw to Caryss and Brackton and a beloved Momo to Chase. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she treasured every moment she spent with them.

Liz was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy; her parents, Claris Louise Lane and Donald Lee Harrington; and her younger sister, Terry.

She is survived by her daughter, Candice Padley and husband Chris of Jenks; her son, Joshua Upton of Sand Springs; her grandchildren, Caryss Upton, Brackton Upton, and Chase Padley; her brother, Frank Harrington and wife Debbie of Woodward; her sister, Sherry Surrell and husband Alex of Tulsa; along with many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her dearly.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Liz's life will be held on September 22, 2026, at 10:00 at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church. She will be laid to rest eternally beside Jimmy on what would have been their 53rd wedding anniversary and a fitting final chapter for two people whose love story began more than 53 years ago.