Elizabeth Chhoun-Be

Elizabeth Cheng Chhoun-Be, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on December 9, 2025, peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on January 2, 1940, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She is survived by her younger sister, Muy Sean Madden; her younger brother, Noland Chhun; her older half-sister, Sambol Om; and her older half-brother, Khan Chhoun.

As an adult, Elizabeth married Skati Be. They had two children—a son, Tino Be, and a daughter, Rawy Heine. Like many Cambodian immigrants of her generation, Elizabeth’s journey was shaped by both sacrifice and loss.

In 1975, as turmoil overtook Cambodia, Elizabeth made the brave decision to leave her homeland and begin a new life in the United States. Her husband was unable to leave Cambodia at the same time due to work commitments. Tragically, the country soon fell under the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, and he lost his life in the “Killing Fields.”

Despite this heartbreaking loss, Elizabeth pressed forward, determined to build a better future for her children. She worked multiple jobs to ensure they had every opportunity. She later became a proud grandmother to Catherine, Jennifer, and Michael Be, who brought her endless joy.

Elizabeth was an amazing cook who began learning her craft at an early age and found true happiness in feeding her family and friends. Her home was always filled with the comforting aromas of her dishes and the warmth of her laughter. Outside of the kitchen, she had a deep love for shopping and delighted in collecting beautiful clothes, shoes, purses, and jewelry, all of which made her feel special.

Heartbreak touched Elizabeth again when her beloved son, Tino, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack last year. Though she grieved deeply, she continued to find strength in her daughter Rawy and in the love of her grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them.

In her final year, Elizabeth cherished spending precious time with her daughter, creating memories that reflected a lifetime of love and resilience. Even though cancer took hold of her body, her spirit remained free, strong, and full of grace. She faced her final journey with courage and peace, surrounded by love.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace. Elizabeth would want everyone to cherish life, move forward with hope, and continue to share the kindness and love she gave so freely.