Elizabeth Marie Byrd (Pecharich), known affectionately as Liz, passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 43, in Mesa, Arizona. Born June 21, 1981, in Prescott, Arizona, Liz was a beacon of light and a pillar of strength within her community.

Liz dedicated her career to physical education and fitness, beginning as an intern at Prescott Racquet Club, as an instructor at the University of Arizona Fitness Center, then as a Physical Education Teacher at Ironwood Ridge High School in Oro Valley, Arizona. She also served as an inspiring fitness instructor at various establishments including Gold’s Gym and Platinum Fitness in Tucson and LA Fitness and EOS Fitness in Mesa, Arizona. Her commitment to health and wellness extended beyond her professional life into her personal passions, which included cooking, travel, and community building.

Liz graduated from Prescott High School in 1999. A graduate of the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science in Education, Liz applied her educational background throughout her life to inspire and motivate those around her. She was a lifelong learner who believed in the power of education and community involvement, often volunteering at her children’s’ schools and engaging in community service.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Red Mountain Community Church, 6101 E. Virginia St., in Mesa, Arizona, on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 11 a.m., with a reception immediately afterward. The service will reflect her vibrant personality, and attendees are encouraged to wear red, pink, and other bright colors.

She is survived by her loving children, Jonathan, age 12; Brooke, age 9; and Matt Byrd, age 4; her parents, Robert and Diane Pecharich; her brother, Rob Pecharich; sisters-in-law, Anne Ortiz and Sara Pecharich; brother-in-law, Scott Dillon, nieces Anya Pecharich and Elisa Pecharich, and nephew, Mason Pecharich. Her extended family includes her mother-in-law, Arlene Cherry-Cetoute, and her father-in-law Faustinus Cetoute.

In place of flowers, contributions can be made to the STEM Academy at Red Mountain Ranch or the GoFundMe campaign established to support Liz’s children’s continued education. Donations can be made online at [https://gofund.me/a92dc6f4](https://gofund.me/a92dc6f4

Information provided by the funeral home.