Liz Sullivan

Liz Sullivan, 75, of Glenwood, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026. 

Born on November 24, 1950, in Santa Maria, California, Liz was the daughter of Eugene Gaxiola and Josephine Alvarez Gaxiola. She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Josie Gaxiola, Tito Gaxiola, Gloria San Antonio, Johnny Gaxiola, and Hermenia Hernandez; and her mother-in-law, Shirley Sullivan. 

On May 28, 1988, Liz married the love of her life, Jim Sullivan, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories. A gifted cosmetologist for more than 57 years, Liz took great pride in helping others feel their best. She owned a salon in Santa Maria before she and Jim made their home in Glenwood, Arkansas, where she owned and operated About Face Hair Salon for 16 years. Through her work, she formed countless lasting friendships and touched many lives. Liz found joy in arts and crafts, collecting unique treasures, and expressing her wonderfully eclectic style. She had a quick wit, a warm heart, and a sense of humor that could brighten any room. More than anything, she cherished her family. Her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world and brought her immeasurable happiness.

Those who knew Liz will remember her for her generous spirit, her laughter, her creativity, and the love she freely shared. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud "Grandma Liz," cherished sister, aunt, and dear friend. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Jim Sullivan of Glenwood, Arkansas; her daughter, Bianca Koens of Santa Maria, California; her grandchildren, Valen (Kayla) Bernal and Jillian Bernal; her great-grandchildren, Roman Camacho, Celine Bernal, and Capri Bernal; her siblings, Nash (Sandy) Gaxiola, Leroy (Cathy) Gaxiola, Linda (Roger) Craft, and Theresa (Richard) Fancher; her father-in-law, Bill Sullivan; and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and wonderful friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Smith Family Funeral Home- Glenwood.