We know a lot of folks share these thoughts on social media, but it’s also nice to have a central space to hold our thoughts. Please say anything you like: tell us how you met Eli, your favourite memory of her, or share how you’re feeling.
(Guestbook is moderated by one of Eli’s family)
21 entries.
wrote on May 21, 2025
at
4:07 pm
I knew Eli briefly in her time here in Halifax... She has been coming in and out of my thoughts for so long and I just happened upon this page. I am so sorry for your loss. She was a warrior and a force of nature. Thank you Eli for your gifts to the world. You will be missed.
wrote on February 2, 2025
at
6:50 pm
Eli will be missed dearly within the School of Social Work at Dalhousie University. She was a fierce disability advocate, promoting the rights of disabled students, staff and faculty. We began a staff and faculty disability caucus at Dal, a place where disabled persons could come together for understanding and respect. Eli was one of the founding members of the caucus and she was always present to listen to her colleagues and to support their struggles for recognition and equity within the university. Eli had a critical lens to disability justice that challenged the establishment at the same time finding space for compassion and care with her disabled colleagues. Within the School of Social Work she embraced the role of Accommodations Officer with grit and might, helping so many disabled students achieve their educational goals. A true advocate and warrior - Eli Joy Manning, you will be missed but your work carries on through each student that you helped, for each mind that you challenged to think differently, and for each heart that found hope through your efforts.
wrote on February 2, 2025
at
4:18 am
I have been wanting to write something since I first heard the news of Eli's passing but couldn't find the words to express ... just how much of an impact she had on my life. We dated for a little over 2 years, got Zo together, and we moved out to Victoria together for her to do her MSW. Wild to think that is almost 20 years ago. We messaged off and on over the years with the last time being approximately 10 years ago.
Although memories of our time together may not be as cognitively vibrant or clear, it has become evident over these past few weeks that my body has held onto the love and care I received from her and the learning and growth I did with her. My life would not be what it is if she had not entered it, if we had not moved here. Thank you Eli.
Music has always been my means of communicating how I feel as I also did during our brief time dating and this song says everything I cannot
https://open.spotify.com/track/6VrjF67WFChXh8uYYBfeRr?si=38b4b030060047f1
Although memories of our time together may not be as cognitively vibrant or clear, it has become evident over these past few weeks that my body has held onto the love and care I received from her and the learning and growth I did with her. My life would not be what it is if she had not entered it, if we had not moved here. Thank you Eli.
Music has always been my means of communicating how I feel as I also did during our brief time dating and this song says everything I cannot
https://open.spotify.com/track/6VrjF67WFChXh8uYYBfeRr?si=38b4b030060047f1
wrote on February 1, 2025
at
8:58 pm
Eli.
We moved west at the same time. Fleeing the cold winters for narrow skies and adventures near the ocean.
It's surreal to think. I won't run into you on the street or at a queer event.
I hope you rest well.
We moved west at the same time. Fleeing the cold winters for narrow skies and adventures near the ocean.
It's surreal to think. I won't run into you on the street or at a queer event.
I hope you rest well.
wrote on February 1, 2025
at
8:07 am
I met Eli around 2009 at BCWC. I remember being in a magic circle in the woods and she was gesturing and talking about the big sky of the prairies, which resonated with this prairie kid. I remember her bright shininess for sure. It was always a pleasure to see here in EastVan in the following years and I echo what has been spoken about her kindness, one of her many super powers.
Although we didn’t remain in touch when she moved to Halifax, when she moved back to Victoria last spring I, fortunately, was living there at the time too. Even though she had so much going on she was so present, and kind, and friendly. I’m so very grateful for the swims we shared. Later in the summer when I put the call out for some post-surgery support, there was Eli showing up even though she was dealing with low energy and trying to figure things out. There she was not letting me pay for the granola that I asked her to pick up for me, saying…pay it forward in friendship down the line. She was generous in all of the ways.
I echo what others have said, that this world is way less grand without beautiful Eli in it. I will endeavour to bring her gifts of kindness and joy forward!
Gratitude to all of her loved ones who were beside her in her journey.
Who is remembered lives.
Although we didn’t remain in touch when she moved to Halifax, when she moved back to Victoria last spring I, fortunately, was living there at the time too. Even though she had so much going on she was so present, and kind, and friendly. I’m so very grateful for the swims we shared. Later in the summer when I put the call out for some post-surgery support, there was Eli showing up even though she was dealing with low energy and trying to figure things out. There she was not letting me pay for the granola that I asked her to pick up for me, saying…pay it forward in friendship down the line. She was generous in all of the ways.
I echo what others have said, that this world is way less grand without beautiful Eli in it. I will endeavour to bring her gifts of kindness and joy forward!
Gratitude to all of her loved ones who were beside her in her journey.
Who is remembered lives.
wrote on January 27, 2025
at
8:56 pm
I am reflecting on the expansiveness of Eli’s love. She loved so big and that lit the way for everyone else to love big too. She never instructed “this is how you love”, she just did it over and over and it was impossible not to absorb her loving teachings. I hear it too in all these beautiful stories. She offered me endless gifts of service, food, love, magic, joy, strength, ecstasy, celebration, goofiness, boundaries, creativity, and her yes-ness! From the moment I met her I knew I loved her. It was instantaneous and I think mutual. She was not afraid to go in and go deep. I don’t know how we go on without her, so I hold her in my heart every day. What is remembered lives.
wrote on January 27, 2025
at
6:59 pm
Along with so many people in Winnipeg, we are remembering Eli fondly - her seeking, her listening, her respecting, her kindness, her energy, her honesty, her smile. Our memories are from many years ago, but they will stick with us. Great big hugs to all of you who loved and were loved.
wrote on January 26, 2025
at
8:10 pm
I met Eli at BCWC. I instantly had a major crush. She was so...alive! Friendly, curious, hilarious, engaged, fun, smart and so freaken beautiful.
When I visited her, on my own, a month or so ago I asked her to share a mutual passion; fabric and sewing. So we went through her fabric box, feeling and admiring. Then she walked me through her closet of creations. So casually talented. Such fun designs and ideas. I felt so honored to have her share this part of herself.
When I got home and was looking for something warm I found a knitted cap that I completely forgot about, that she knit for me. I don't knit but had a few skeins of cashmere and vaguely mentioned to her (this was years ago when she was over for a visit) that I had it and was dreaming of a cap. Well a few weeks later I had one. That was her....just did it cause she could. Now I hold it to my heart, feel it's warm and think of her; her generous heart, her radiant smile, her embrace, her wit, her "yes". This world is less without the her that was her, here but I know that she is everywhere and this gives me the comfort that I need to live as she would want me to live with all the lessons and love she gave me and everyone she encountered in her life.
I will grieve the loss of her but I commit to celebrating her radiant, delicious life.
Who is remembered, lives.
When I visited her, on my own, a month or so ago I asked her to share a mutual passion; fabric and sewing. So we went through her fabric box, feeling and admiring. Then she walked me through her closet of creations. So casually talented. Such fun designs and ideas. I felt so honored to have her share this part of herself.
When I got home and was looking for something warm I found a knitted cap that I completely forgot about, that she knit for me. I don't knit but had a few skeins of cashmere and vaguely mentioned to her (this was years ago when she was over for a visit) that I had it and was dreaming of a cap. Well a few weeks later I had one. That was her....just did it cause she could. Now I hold it to my heart, feel it's warm and think of her; her generous heart, her radiant smile, her embrace, her wit, her "yes". This world is less without the her that was her, here but I know that she is everywhere and this gives me the comfort that I need to live as she would want me to live with all the lessons and love she gave me and everyone she encountered in her life.
I will grieve the loss of her but I commit to celebrating her radiant, delicious life.
Who is remembered, lives.
wrote on January 24, 2025
at
10:10 pm
I first met Eli at an HIV research conference when she was doing her PhD. I was then pleasantly surprised to run into her at an orientation day for new faculty at Dalhousie University when she first landed in Halifax. We became fast friends. She and Cooper were my bestest bubble buddies and rowing pals. She was my favourite cake inspirer, doggy walker, oyster shucker, lobster sucker, brainy collaborator, fellow knitter, road tripper, dim sum yummer, beach bummer, heart holder. My sweet talented brainy generous friend... I will miss her in so many ways. ❤️
Thank you to her people out west who took tender care of her.
Thank you to her people out west who took tender care of her.
wrote on January 24, 2025
at
6:41 am
Eli and I met over 16 years ago. We would walk dogs together and talk about what world change could look like. She was always so supportive and kind and SMART. Eli is a big reason I went into social work. It was such an honour to study her work in my MSW and to discuss with my prof who also supervised her for her thesis, about how amazing Eli was. I was far from Eli’s closest of friends but she made an impact on me in a huge way. It was a blessing to get to hang out with her last July at Saltspring Pride. As usual we shared stories about our past year, chronic illness, personal struggles and that I had completed my MSW finally. I was hopeful to spend more time together and I frankly feel ripped off by what cancer has taken from all of us. I’m imagining Eli running in fields with her fluffy butt pup.
wrote on January 23, 2025
at
10:40 am
I met Eli in grad school at York, around 2010 or 2011, and we connected instantly. She was super smart, warm and sparkly, queer and disabled and political and absolutely brimming with life. One of those people who lifts the mood of a room just by walking in the door. She was a bright spot in a difficult grad school experience. At first we commiserated over tough course readings but I remember so clearly when we were like “I think we’re gonna be friends!” and from that moment on, we were.
Between our respective health issues and physical distance, we were in and out of touch after she switched programs to one in Vancouver, but we visited and spoke when we were able. Most recently, I stayed with her on a trip out East in the fall of 2023, and it was wonderful to reconnect.
At various points over the years, Eli and I soaked our sore bodies together at water spas in Toronto and Vancouver, and although she couldn't join me, she introduced me to her favourite outdoor spa near Halifax, too - and lent her car to make sure I could go. We savoured delicious chocolate together, had deep conversations about a million things. Our last in-person hangout was over diner breakfast in Halifax: greasy eggs and bacon at a table in a sunny window. Terrible tea and excellent company.
I'll always remember Eli in water and in sun. I'm gutted that she's gone so young. It’s been a privilege to be her friend.
Between our respective health issues and physical distance, we were in and out of touch after she switched programs to one in Vancouver, but we visited and spoke when we were able. Most recently, I stayed with her on a trip out East in the fall of 2023, and it was wonderful to reconnect.
At various points over the years, Eli and I soaked our sore bodies together at water spas in Toronto and Vancouver, and although she couldn't join me, she introduced me to her favourite outdoor spa near Halifax, too - and lent her car to make sure I could go. We savoured delicious chocolate together, had deep conversations about a million things. Our last in-person hangout was over diner breakfast in Halifax: greasy eggs and bacon at a table in a sunny window. Terrible tea and excellent company.
I'll always remember Eli in water and in sun. I'm gutted that she's gone so young. It’s been a privilege to be her friend.
wrote on January 22, 2025
at
10:33 pm
I watched Elizabeth grow up over the early years and although we have just kept in touch, but haven’t seen each other for years her attitude is always so positive. I remember her as a young girl ……. “So enthusiastic and kind. “ she will always be remembered…… missed, but never forgotten”. Thanks for reaching out to us Lindsay. Love Uncle George ❤️
wrote on January 22, 2025
at
3:23 am
I met Eli through captain this past year and was immediately excited to know her. I had heard a lot of sweet and hilarious stories before meeting her in person. It felt special to build a friendship with someone who loves swimming as much as I do. One of my favourite memories is when Eli, myself, and our mutual friend ruby went on a swimming adventure together in a lake during salt spring pride. We stopped on the way back when we saw a baked goods stand at the end of someone's driveway. She bought me a fucking fantastic peanut butter chocolate treat. I loved getting to know Eli. I'm sending so much love to all who are missing her.
wrote on January 21, 2025
at
10:47 pm
Eli and I first met more than 20 years ago, and she became both a friend as well as a mentor. We both had a great love of critters; so I would like to share the story of the start of El's life with her beloved Zo.
My partner, at the time, worked in a remote Manitoba fly-in community and happened upon this little fuzzy puppy all alone on the porch of an abandoned house. The pup wasn't in great condition, including chemical burns on her legs from lying in gas, but she was full of love (and worms). She was scooped up immediately and, a couple of weeks later, we began the process of finding her a furever home.
It didn't take long before Eli reached out asking questions about the wee pup...and the questions quickly went from curiosity to the logistics of adopting her. The little pup was flown to Winnipeg to begin her new life; and so began the adventures of Eli and Zo for the next 15+ years. Regardless of where Eli's travels took her, she would always send updates on Zo's adventures.
The last Zo update came in Aug 2021 when Eli connected to let me know that Zo had passed over the Rainbow Bridge. I still have the message that Eli sent, which ended with "Thank you cannot convey the appreciation I have for you shepherding her into my life. She had a big, full, beautiful life and it all started with you bringing her to me. Much love Eli".
I never would have thought that Eli and Zo would be reunited so soon, but I find solace in believing that their adventures will now continue together. Rest in peace and power. Much love.
My partner, at the time, worked in a remote Manitoba fly-in community and happened upon this little fuzzy puppy all alone on the porch of an abandoned house. The pup wasn't in great condition, including chemical burns on her legs from lying in gas, but she was full of love (and worms). She was scooped up immediately and, a couple of weeks later, we began the process of finding her a furever home.
It didn't take long before Eli reached out asking questions about the wee pup...and the questions quickly went from curiosity to the logistics of adopting her. The little pup was flown to Winnipeg to begin her new life; and so began the adventures of Eli and Zo for the next 15+ years. Regardless of where Eli's travels took her, she would always send updates on Zo's adventures.
The last Zo update came in Aug 2021 when Eli connected to let me know that Zo had passed over the Rainbow Bridge. I still have the message that Eli sent, which ended with "Thank you cannot convey the appreciation I have for you shepherding her into my life. She had a big, full, beautiful life and it all started with you bringing her to me. Much love Eli".
I never would have thought that Eli and Zo would be reunited so soon, but I find solace in believing that their adventures will now continue together. Rest in peace and power. Much love.
wrote on January 20, 2025
at
8:11 pm
I had the privilege of meeting Eli in the summer of 2022, as we both joined the same committee at Dalhousie University at the same time. I only knew her through our work – we never met outside of meetings – but it was clear, professionally and personally, the kind of person Eli was. She was a force who worked toward equity and inclusion for students and patients. She was willing to challenge others’ perspectives with the goal of improving curriculum and teaching her colleagues at the same time. And she did so with such grace and kindness. I admired her and was so grateful for the opportunity to know her and learn from her.
I was disappointed when she left our committee due to her forthcoming sabbatical and am devastated that I won’t have the opportunity to work with her again.
Eli, you inspired so many of us who were fortunate to land, even briefly, in your academic orbit.
I was disappointed when she left our committee due to her forthcoming sabbatical and am devastated that I won’t have the opportunity to work with her again.
Eli, you inspired so many of us who were fortunate to land, even briefly, in your academic orbit.
wrote on January 20, 2025
at
5:37 pm
Eli would say "what is remembered lives."
Here's what she taught me.
I will enthusiastically say yes to any adventure: tanning on the secret beach, a road trip to Portland (with a ziplock bag full of spices to make a special dish for friends), a trip to New York to cat sit for a friend. Show up and be fully present for whatever happens, even if you get lost. Test the limits of your body, preferably on a body of water, but indoors on an erg will work too. Love on the people, animals and students around you with your whole heart.
Read academic articles, read mystery novels, read text messages from 4 time zones away, read between the lines, read lips, read my mind, read tarot cards, read your own heart, and then set sail for your wildest dreams.
Create powerful rituals with everyday objects. Create your own clothes that fit your curves and long legs, rip the seams out a few times if you need to, so it's just how you want it.
Create a legacy.
Here's what she taught me.
I will enthusiastically say yes to any adventure: tanning on the secret beach, a road trip to Portland (with a ziplock bag full of spices to make a special dish for friends), a trip to New York to cat sit for a friend. Show up and be fully present for whatever happens, even if you get lost. Test the limits of your body, preferably on a body of water, but indoors on an erg will work too. Love on the people, animals and students around you with your whole heart.
Read academic articles, read mystery novels, read text messages from 4 time zones away, read between the lines, read lips, read my mind, read tarot cards, read your own heart, and then set sail for your wildest dreams.
Create powerful rituals with everyday objects. Create your own clothes that fit your curves and long legs, rip the seams out a few times if you need to, so it's just how you want it.
Create a legacy.
wrote on January 19, 2025
at
10:38 pm
Eli - this warrior woman - was a new colleague to me in 2021 - introduced to me by Ajay - and I am so glad to have considered her a friend. We created some monumental outcomes for our work at the university together, and I can honestly say I was counting on her to change the world. Eli - sweet thing - go bravely and loudly as you do, don’t look back, and know that you left us all better than we could ever have been without you. Thank you for being the bright light that helped us all to see so much more clearly. ❤️❤️❤️
wrote on January 19, 2025
at
7:40 pm
I knew Eli from when she was a little, full of life and wonder. When she came to Naramata BC as part of her "world tour", we spent a lovely day together. I loved her for all of her life.
wrote on January 19, 2025
at
2:11 pm
Deepest condolences! Eli was a constant blessing as friend and colleague. She was a big part of welcoming Jamin and me to Halifax and helping us to build a sense of home here. May her love, light, wisdom, grace, humor, and joy dance among the stars. We love and miss you, Eli. Rest in love and peace. ❤🌈☮
wrote on January 19, 2025
at
6:28 am
Eli was the first new friend I made when I moved to Victoria in 2008. We were introduced by a mutual friend who is probably as stunned as me to hear the sad news of her passing. Eli was always busy as her obituary so aptly testifies. We connected for a coffee and I was thrilled to meet such a smart, queer, interesting human. After a chat she invited me to a party that was being held in the next few days.
I had been trying to figure out how to meet queer people in Victoria so I was thrilled. We arranged to meet at the party but when I arrived and looked around, she wasn't there. For this introvert it was a bit of an unnerving situation but the kind queers that had gathered welcomed a stranger nonetheless! As she knew they would. One or two of those folks are still part of my community.
Eli and I never became close friends but I was a fan. I did see her recently at the celebration of life of a dear friend of mine and hers who died of cancer last year. If there is any justice in this universe, they will be having a beer now and hopefully a good laugh.
I had been trying to figure out how to meet queer people in Victoria so I was thrilled. We arranged to meet at the party but when I arrived and looked around, she wasn't there. For this introvert it was a bit of an unnerving situation but the kind queers that had gathered welcomed a stranger nonetheless! As she knew they would. One or two of those folks are still part of my community.
Eli and I never became close friends but I was a fan. I did see her recently at the celebration of life of a dear friend of mine and hers who died of cancer last year. If there is any justice in this universe, they will be having a beer now and hopefully a good laugh.
wrote on January 19, 2025
at
4:32 am
We want to share our favourite Eli story from long ago.
In the fall of 2013, we were just about to get married, and had only just met Eli through Lindsay, Daven and Tara a short while before. The wedding was very close, but we liked Eli so much we were just like "You HAVE to come to our wedding, new wonderful human!"
Being Eli, she was up for the fun, and also offered to help, and said the magic words "I have a large vehicle".
Eli found herself roped in to agreeing to pick up the wedding cake, along with the family of dear ones who were making said cake.
None of us knew this, but our cake-making friend, a remarkably talented and organized person, had nevertheless suffered an incredible series of cake-baking setbacks, one after the other, resulting in such desperate last-minute shenanigans as sending her wife to ask about 10 neighbours for replacement eggs (big-ass cake, sorry, River).
When Eli arrived on time at our friend's house for the pick up, all beautifully dressed, she suddenly found herself in an apron, with decorating tools thrust into her hands, as the entire family --including the young children -- feverishly worked to finish the cake.
Everyone and the cake got to the venue on time, in Eli's car.
That's just who Eli was. She was never afraid to jump right in.
In the fall of 2013, we were just about to get married, and had only just met Eli through Lindsay, Daven and Tara a short while before. The wedding was very close, but we liked Eli so much we were just like "You HAVE to come to our wedding, new wonderful human!"
Being Eli, she was up for the fun, and also offered to help, and said the magic words "I have a large vehicle".
Eli found herself roped in to agreeing to pick up the wedding cake, along with the family of dear ones who were making said cake.
None of us knew this, but our cake-making friend, a remarkably talented and organized person, had nevertheless suffered an incredible series of cake-baking setbacks, one after the other, resulting in such desperate last-minute shenanigans as sending her wife to ask about 10 neighbours for replacement eggs (big-ass cake, sorry, River).
When Eli arrived on time at our friend's house for the pick up, all beautifully dressed, she suddenly found herself in an apron, with decorating tools thrust into her hands, as the entire family --including the young children -- feverishly worked to finish the cake.
Everyone and the cake got to the venue on time, in Eli's car.
That's just who Eli was. She was never afraid to jump right in.