Elizabeth Anne Breen

ELIZABETH ANNE BREEN, age 69 of Bay St. Louis, MS, passed away on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

ELIZABETH ANNE BREEN was born on Flag Day, June 14, 1957, in Norfolk VA, where her father was stationed with the Navy. She was the youngest of three children and the only daughter of George William Breen and Madeline Mary Berni Breen. Lizzie, as her mother called her, spent only a brief time in Virginia before returning home with her family to New Orleans. She was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy in New Orleans.

Liz’s career as a legal secretary spanned several decades both in New Orleans and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She began her professional journey as a corporate secretary for Schwegmann's and went on to hold a number of positions throughout her career. Her most cherished role was perhaps at Hancock Medical Center, where she served as assistant to the Director of Nursing. During this time, she formed many friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life.

Liz’s compassion and generosity were reflected in the way she cared for others. When a close childhood friend was diagnosed with cancer and needed a bone marrow transplant, Liz was tested as a potential donor. Although she was not a match for her friend, she was later identified as a match for another patient in need. Without hesitation, Liz donated her bone marrow to a complete stranger, offering the gift of hope and demonstrating the selflessness that defined her character.

Liz was an avid gardener with a truly green thumb and always kept a beautiful home. She was a gifted embroiderer, and anyone fortunate enough to receive one of her creations knows that the back of each piece is every bit as perfect as the front, evidence of her meticulous attention to detail. In her younger years, Liz loved horseback riding, especially spending time with her beloved horse, Lep. Her affection for animals remained constant throughout her life. She found immense joy in watching the birds and squirrels gather at the feeders she faithfully kept filled, and she never hesitated to feed a stray cat that crossed her path. She especially loved to spoil her grand-dog, Luna Marie Timberlake, with treats during their daily visits. Her kindness and compassion for all living creatures were among the many qualities that made her so special.

Family Game Nights were always a highlight of the weekends. Liz was fiercely competitive. Dominos and any card games were her favorite. If you ever played against her, you likely lost. And if you ever played Scrabble with her and took her spot, you might still feel guilty about it.

Liz was a devout, lifelong Catholic. When her health no longer allowed her to attend Mass in person, she faithfully watched daily Mass on television. A rosary was always by her side, and a prayer book was never far from reach.

Above all else, Liz cherished her only son, Harvey, and her beloved grandson, Jack. She was the most devoted and loving “G-Maw” Jack could have hoped for. Through thoughtful gestures and treasured traditions, she made every holiday feel magical. Even throughout life's challenges, Liz never lost her childlike sense of wonder.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, John Anthony Breen. 

She is survived by her son, Harvey A. Timberlake, III (Julie) and grandson, Jackson William Timberlake, of Bay St. Louis; her brother, Berni Breen (Elise) of Diamondhead; her sister-in-law Denise Breen Merwin of Mandeville; niece Katie Breen Jennings (Greg) of Eagle, CO; nephews Steven Breen (Karen) of New Orleans, Jason Breen (Samantha) of Jackson, MS, and Mark Breen (Jennifer) of Mandeville, LA, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Liz’s wishes for a simple service, the family will have a visitation at 10:30 am with a mass of Christian burial at 11 am on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Hancock County Food Pantry, Hancock County Animal Shelter, and/or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, all of which were close to Liz’s heart. 

Edmond Fahey Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Elizabeth "Liz" Anne Breen.