Elizabeth Ann Braswell Lathem, affectionately known as Liz, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026. Born on November 11, 1941, in Cherokee County, Georgia, she was the youngest of six children born to the late Walter Jackson "W.J." Braswell and Cora Cox Braswell. A lifelong resident of Cherokee County, Liz made her beloved home primarily in Lathemtown.

On August 24, 1968, she married her devoted husband, the late Bobby Douglas Lathem. Liz dedicated her professional life to the banking industry, serving as an Assistant Bank Manager for Forsyth County Bank, which later transitioned to Wachovia, until her retirement in 1994. Beyond her career, she was deeply committed to her community in Cumming and Lathemtown. Liz was a faithful member of Orange Methodist Church and gave her time generously to the Meals on Wheels program and Orange Methodist Women.

Liz had a vibrant, whimsical spirit and a uniquely generous heart. A passionate gardener and gracious hostess, she worked tirelessly to cultivate a stunning array of plants surrounding her home, which served as a beautiful backdrop for the many special events she hosted. Liz found profound joy in sharing gifts, her time, and her attention with others. If she found something she loved—whether it was a beautiful bar of almond soap, lemon-scented hand creams, or festive Halloween and Christmas decor—she made sure to purchase one for everyone she thought would love it too.

She was an avid collector of Department 56 holiday decor, pieces she prized and enjoyed immensely throughout her life. An extremely talented, self-taught artist, Liz frequently drew and colored beautiful, handmade greeting cards to share with those she loved. In her quiet moments, she could be found cheering on the Atlanta Braves, completing crossword and word search puzzles, and spending time with her cherished cat, Goldie.

Liz was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Douglas Lathem; her parents, W.J. and Cora; her siblings and their spouses: Lowell Braswell and his wife Margaret Wheeler, Dot and Ben Maddox, and Marjorie and Ed Howard; as well as two siblings who passed in infancy.

She is survived by her loving son, Jonathan Lathem, and his wife, Kelli; her adored grandson, Jackson Lathem; her cousin and best friend, Lynn Cox Johnston; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever cherish her memory.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM at Darby Funeral Home in Canton, Georgia, followed immediately by a service at 5:00 PM. Both the visitation and service are open to all friends and extended family. Following cremation, a private graveside service will take place where her ashes will be laid to rest by her immediate family at Orange Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Liz’s honor to Orange Methodist Church, 220 Orange Church Circle, Canton, GA 30115. 

The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ms. Elizabeth "Liz" Ann Braswell Lathem.