Livingston Parish residents gathered at Crazy Dave’s Daiquiris on Frost Road on Sunday to raise funds for the family of Elizabeth Woodruff, a 24-year-old woman from Ponchatoula who tragically lost her life in a car crash last week.
A Heartfelt Benefit for Elizabeth’s Family
The benefit event brought together family, friends, and the local community in support of Woodruff’s family during a difficult time. Hollie Thompson, a close friend of the Woodruff family, spoke on their behalf, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support.
“We’re still kind of in shock, but we’re going to get through this. Liz was an amazing person who had a bright personality and always had everybody smiling and laughing,” Thompson said, reflecting on Woodruff’s vibrant character.
Fundraising for Elizabeth’s Daughter
The event included a pool tournament, jambalaya plates, and a silent auction, with the proceeds going toward supporting Parker Jo Woodruff, Elizabeth’s young daughter. Michelle McMichael, who helped run the pool tournament, mentioned that the funds would be used to secure Parker Jo’s future and cover funeral expenses.
“The proceeds from today are going to help Parker Jo Woodruff, Elizabeth’s daughter. Hopefully, we’ll have enough for her for her future,” McMichael told WBRZ.
Thompson shared an update on how Parker Jo is doing, saying that she’s currently staying with Elizabeth’s twin sister, Maddie, and her family, ensuring that Parker is surrounded by love and support.
Community Support in the Wake of Tragedy
The benefit event drew a large crowd from all over the area, including both people close to the family and others who were meeting them for the first time. Sheila Cooper, a woman who lost her own child, expressed how important it was for her to show support for the Woodruff family.
“I lost a child, so I think this is just wonderful that they have all these people out here to support her,” Cooper said.
Local Businesses Show Solidarity
Several local bars, including Tipsy Tiger Daiquiris in Walker, also supported the cause. Jade Glissman from Tipsy Tiger shared that they had postponed their pool tournament that was scheduled for Sunday to honor Liz and her family.
“Liz was a regular at Tipsy’s. She always loved coming to play the pool tournaments, and at the bar, we do tournaments a lot. We decided to take a break from pool tournaments and wanted to come out and support Liz and all her family,” Glissman said.
A Message of Love and Support
Thompson ended her message by urging everyone to never take their loved ones for granted. “The Woodruffs say that people should always love their kids every day and never take them for granted,” she said, adding that her heart goes out to the family during this long and hard journey.
The community’s collective support continues to be a beacon of hope and love for the Woodruff family as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.
