Elizabeth Pape

STERLING - Elizabeth "Liz" Pape, 74, of Sterling, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, to Frank and Celeste Ribeiro, Liz was the eldest of five children. She led a full and meaningful life as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, CEO, volunteer, and, most cherished of all, grandmother.

A proud graduate of Smith College, Liz shared a deep sense of adventure with her beloved husband, Larry. Early in their marriage, they lived in Switzerland, where they developed a lasting appreciation for European culture and cuisine. They later traveled both abroad and across the United States, including memorable visits to national parks. Together, they raised four children in a home where the kitchen was the heart. The eternal hostess, she warmly welcomed anyone to her always open table. She will be remembered for using fresh ingredients from her lovingly tended garden to create inventive, vibrant dishes and hearty soups. Her Portuguese sausage stuffing for Thanksgiving and cheese fondue, served on cold winter nights, will continue to be cherished family recipes. With her grandchildren-Conor, Adriana, Lilia, Emerson, Benjamin, Charlie, and Elizabeth "Izzie"- she instilled a love for food, spending many hours together harvesting fruit and vegetables, baking and decorating cookies, and designing holiday menus. Liz's many hobbies - including knitting, quilting, canning, and gardening - filled her home with warmth and became gifts for loved ones, from hand-stitched sweaters and socks to jars of homemade salsas.

In 1996, Liz co-founded Virtual High School (VHS), now VHS Learning, launching a pioneering online learning platform. As President and CEO, she led VHS to nonprofit status in 2001, transforming K-12 education with her visionary leadership.

After retiring in 2012, Liz remained deeply engaged in her community. She volunteered with the Sterling Senior Center, organizing events that enriched the lives of local seniors, and contributed to the Sterling Garden Club. Through deep engagement in local nonprofits, including serving on the boards of ONE Worcester and Quinsigamond Community College, she connected with inspiring, intelligent people whose ideas and stories fueled her passion for community initiatives.

Liz is survived by her husband Larry; her children, Michael and his wife Danielle, Jennifer and her husband John Clark, Robert and his wife Molly, and Christine and her husband Robert Rizzi; her seven grandchildren; siblings Sandra, James, David, and Jeffrey; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Frank and Celeste Ribeiro.

There will be no services at this time. Assisting with arrangements is Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street in Holden.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sterling Senior Center (P.O. Box 243 Sterling, MA 01564) or the National Park Foundation. Liz's legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, leadership, and generosity.