Elise Anderson Cash

Elise Marguerite Anderson Cash

August 28, 1968 – February 15, 2026

Elise Marguerite Anderson Cash, beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on February 15, 2026, at the age of 57.

Elise was preceded in death by her sister and best friend, Ashli Anderson Rist. Their bond was profound, and we take comfort in imagining them reunited.

She is survived by her devoted son, Tyler Jay Cash; her loving parents, Dr. Jay and Holly Anderson; her brothers, Cornell and Gabriel Anderson; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Elise was a steady source of comfort and a compassionate listener - someone people instinctively turned to in moments of need.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Elise moved with her family to Los Angeles in 1978 before settling in Durham, North Carolina. She graduated with high honors from Cresset Christian Academy and went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Professionally, Elise became a Board-Certified Histopathology Technician, opening doors to research opportunities at Duke University, UNC, Glaxo, and FEMA. Yet beyond her professional accomplishments, she will perhaps be remembered most for her lifelong love of horses.

An accomplished equestrian from a young age, Elise competed in numerous horse shows throughout her youth. After enduring several broken bones, she transitioned into teaching, training, and judging - eventually serving as a UNC Equestrian coach. She possessed a rare gift with difficult horses and was often affectionately described as a “horse whisperer.”

In the later chapter of her life, Elise devoted herself to caring for elderly and ill patients. Her kindness, competence, and deep sense of dignity left a lasting impression not only on those she cared for but on their families as well. She treated everyone with gentleness, respect, and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Chatham Community Church, 1685 Andrews Store Road, Pittsboro, North Carolina. Pastor Alex Kirk will preside. Service details will be announced soon.

Elise’s warmth, strength, and unwavering compassion will be deeply missed and forever remembered.