Elizabeth M. Harlow

elizabeth harlow

August 12, 1936 ~ December 7, 2024

Born in: Boston, MA
Resided in: Hamden, CT

Elizabeth M. Harlow, 88, of Hamden, passed away on December 7, 2024, at Whitney Center. She was born in Boston, MA on August 12, 1936, a daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (Binnig) Harlow. She is survived by her son William Gunn and his wife Amanda, her grandchildren Carolyn Gunn, William Gunn and his wife Annie, Meredith Gunn and Delaney Gunn, great-granddaughter Alexandria Benites, and beloved friend Lauren Loro. She was predeceased by her sister Carolyn Rosenthal.
Elizabeth taught music in the Hamden Public Schools for 25 years. She was in many elementary schools, the middle school, and Hamden High School, where she directed the chorus and the very popular Swing Choir. She also played the organ at St. Stephen Church and St. Andrew’s Methodist Church. After retiring she became an accomplished watercolor artist.
The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and aides at The Whitney Center in Hamden, especially Peggy Joyce.
Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Paul VI Parish/Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 2819 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Please meet directly at the church. Interment will follow in Beaverdale Memorial Park. Calling hours will be on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. in Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Memorial contributions in Elizabeth’s name may be made to Animal Haven, 89 Mill Rd., North Haven, CT 06473, or to a charity of one’s choice. For online condolences, please see Elizabeth’s obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.

Services

Visitation: December 15, 2024 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Beecher & Bennett Funeral Service - Hamden
2300 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518

203-288-0800

Mass of Christian Burial: December 16, 2024 10:00 am

Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church
2819 Whitney Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518

203-248-0141

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Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. So many great memories of Liz throughout my childhood years and adulthood. She was talented in so many ways. We will miss our visits with her.

  2. One of many music educators to bring joy to my youth. I sang in choir and played flute in the Hamden school system. Between Mrs. Harlow, Mrs. Loro, and Mr. Gunn I was always supported and encouraged to embrace and enjoy music in many ways. They all a special place in my heart and I share memories with my children all the time. I am saddened to her of Liz’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. A great creative soul has gone on to share her talents and will be a singing angel for sure.

  3. One of the best teachers I have EVER had! My friends and I still sing her songs from elementary school when getting together. God bless.

  4. Somewhat at a loss for words. “Mrs. Gunn” as we all called her, she had such a profound influence on all of us in the Hamden High Class of 1983 – me, Bill, Larry, Laurie, Emilie, Lisa, Carla…the list goes on, so many people over so many years. Helped shape who we all are today. I know she will be deeply missed but fondly remembered and never, ever forgotten…

  5. When I think of Liz, I think of light, of sparkle, of joy. To me, that was her essence. She imparted the exquisite serenity of that essence to her students. It was delivered with a demanding patience that required excellence, but also recognized and forgave the missteps that excellence often exacts. Her creativity was boundless and filled her classroom with possibility and passion. My sincere condolences to all who so dearly loved her…Kathleen Burkhart (Asst.Principal, HHS 1987-1995)

  6. I have so many fond memories of time spent in Mrs. Harlow‘s choir room or rehearsing for a musical or traveling with the Swing Choir from 1994-1997. I can’t imagine my high school experience without her. Truly my favorite teacher and a wonderful, kind and generous women.

  7. My hearts breaks! What a loving and beautiful spirit. She was like a second Mom, from grade school to high school. I am very saddened to hear of such an incredible loss, I know Elizabeth touched the lives of so many over the years of teaching, but hands down one of the best spirits that has touched my life. Radiant smile, goofy presence, and an impactful personality.
    You will be greatly missed, but you have tremendously loved.
    May the memories of you comfort those of your family, friends and loved ones during this sad time of loss.
    Dunbar Hill Elementary 1986 – 1989; Hamden High 1994- 1998

  8. I heard late yesterday that Mrs Gunn had past away. HS Choir and barbershop helped shaped me as a man and her quiet but firm personality was tough to question. I recall how much confidence she gave me to sing. To this day if I’m talking with young kids or adults who want to sing I simply ask them sing to the seat I. The place. We can always tone it down.

    Her memory will most certainly resonate for years and years to all those she knew.

    Peace and love to Bill and family!

  9. Bill- sending you my deepest condolences. Your mom was a part of some of my fondest memories of HHS, HTD and the music department. Sending love and prayers to you and your family.

  10. Bill, Lauren, and family, I am so sorry to learn about your loss. I remember he well from my days at Hamden High. She was such a kind and gracious soul. My most sincere condolences.


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