Alice Elzner Somerville-Pessagno

Alice Elzner Somerville-Pessagno, a dedicated and accomplished individual, passed away on December 1, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and a remarkable career. Alice was born on December 21, 1933, in Gray's Prairie, Texas to her parents Steve Elzner and Annie Elzner (Simecek).

Alice began her professional journey at ABC Television in Oklahoma City before relocating to Dallas, Texas. In 1974, she joined the University of Texas - Dallas as an Administrative Assistant of the Geosciences Department. Subsequently she was promoted to Chief Administrative Assistant, a position she held until her well-deserved retirement in 1997.

Known for her friendly nature and warm hospitality, Alice was cherished by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her. She will be remembered as a kind-hearted individual who welcomed everyone with open arms.

In her leisure time, Alice enjoyed pursuing various hobbies and interests. She had an uncontainable passion for fishing and would often embark on memorable angling adventures. Additionally, Alice possessed a spirit for exploration and cherished traveling to new destinations. She also found joy in visiting casinos and indulging in their lively ambiance.

Alice now joins her loved ones who have passed before her: father, Steve Elzner, mother, Annie Elzner, brother Joseph Steve Elzner, brother Edwin Elzner, brother Frank Elzner, sister, Mary Elzner Hughes, and sister, Rose Elzner Reznicek.

She is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Dr. Emile Pessagno, PhD, and their shared memories will forever live on in his heart. Alice is also survived by her brother William Benjamin Elzner and sister Ann Elzner Bailey.

During this time of mourning and reflection on a beautiful life-lived, let us celebrate the precious moments we shared with and of Alice Elzner Pessagno. Her positive influence on those around her and her unwavering kindness will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.

A Funeral Mass will be held at a later date at St, Jude’s Catholic Church in Gun Barrel City. She will be memorialized at Kaufman Cemetery in Kaufman.

Alice Elzner Pessagno will forever remain in our hearts as a beacon of warmth and compassion. May her soul find eternal rest, and may her memory continue to inspire us to spread kindness and love in our own lives.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Association at the following:

Donate by Phone 

800.272.3900 

Donate by Mail 

Send a check to:
Alzheimer's Association
P.O. Box 96011
Washington, DC 20090-6011 

The staff at Parker-Ashworth Funerals and Cremations are honored to assist Dr. Pessagno in the arrangements for Alice.