Elizabeth Akana Chong was born on February 29, 1920 to parents Benedict and Elfreida Akana. Of Hawaiian, German, and Chinese descent, Elizabeth attended Kamehameha Schools and enjoyed participating in sports and Hawaiian song. Her gentle, mild-mannered personality and her knowledge of Hawaiian culture and her cosmopolitan mixture enabled her to excel and succeed in her early career role as a tour guide at the Hawaiian Pineapple Company. Her smile and charisma were "feathers in her cap."After a few years as a guide, Elizabeth sought a more permanent position with the federal government. There, she made tremendous contributions as a clerk stenographer and secretary for nearly 40 years for the Army Transportation Supply at Pier 39 on Nimitz Highway. Years later, she transferred to Fort Shafter in other positions
At the start of her federal career, Elizabeth met the love of her life, Roy K.P. Chong. Together, they raised three children and enjoyed a lifelong passion for family, football, and supporting their children's careers. She and Roy were married for nearly 60 years until Roy's passing in 1999. Roy and Elizabeth's children still reside in Hawai'i.
After retiring from the federal position, she spent many days volunteering at her sons' physical therapy and dental offices for years, "keeping herself busy," she would say.
In the latter part of the 1940s, Elizabeth was fortunate to participate in one of Hawai'i's only singing quartet of women called the Kanileo's. Elizabeth sang second soprano and the group recorded several records which DJ Lucky Luck frequently played on his morning radio show. The women also made appearances at concerts and private parties before they became mothers and devoted their time to their children.
In addition to her children: Arleen Puanani Lum Lee, Elroy Kalani Chong, Armand Kainoa Chong, Elizabeth is survived by a sister Leona Crabbe, 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, six great-great- grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by husband Roy K. P. Chong, sister Lani Chow and brother William Akana.
The family would like to thank Elizabeth's care providers, Sesilia Sagiao, Tunisian Iosefo, and Pat Shigeno, for their extraordinary loving care.
Private graveside burial services were held at Diamond Head Memorial Park.
Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
