Elizabeth Fielder

Elizabeth Mercado Fielder, 82, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 11, 1944, to Jesus L. Mercado and Emilia Moreno, whose roots originated in Mexico. Elizabeth was raised in Arizona, where she developed the strength, resilience, and strong family values that would define her life and inspire those around her.

Elizabeth lived a remarkable life defined by faith, family, entrepreneurship, creativity, and an unwavering work ethic. She married Dean L. Humphries in 1969, and together they were blessed with five children. In 1984, she married Michael K. Fielder, her devoted husband and partner in life.

Elizabeth broke barriers during her career at Black Thunder Mine in Wright, WY, where she worked loading coal trains. Known for her precision and dedication, she earned recognition as the first employee to load a perfectly weighted train with exactly 100 tons of coal. This achievement reflected the determination and excellence that she brought to every endeavor. She also served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Society of Mining Engineers, where her leadership and organizational skills were highly respected.

Following her success in the mining industry, alongside her devoted husband, Elizabeth owned and operated Cody Aero in Cody, WY. Together they built a successful aviation business, reflecting their shared dedication, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit. Through their work at Cody Aero, they had the privilege of hosting numerous distinguished visitors, including President George H. W. Bush, Senator Alan Simpson, and other well-known public figures and celebrities.

A gifted entrepreneur and craftswoman, Elizabeth founded Native Traditions in Tooele, UT. There she designed and created leather Native clothing, traditional dresses, horse bridles, blankets, saddles, and other handcrafted items. Her talent, creativity, and business acumen made her work sought after and admired by many.

For more than 30 years, Elizabeth lived on her ranchette in Frenchtown, MT, where she devoted herself to raising and training horses. Horses were among her greatest passions, and she was an accomplished equestrian whose knowledge, patience, and love for the animals were evident to everyone who knew her.

Elizabeth's many talents extended to the arts. She was a gifted painter whose artwork reflected her creativity and appreciation for the beauty around her. She was also an accomplished pianist, sharing her music with family gatherings and church congregations throughout her life.

Family and food were at the center of Elizabeth's heart. She was a fabulous cook who delighted loved ones with her holiday tamales, custom tacos, and countless family meals. Wanting to preserve her treasured recipes and traditions, she self-published a family cookbook featuring Spanish cuisine and dishes suitable for every occasion.

Above all, Elizabeth loved being surrounded by her family. She cherished every opportunity to bring loved ones together, creating lasting memories through holidays, celebrations, music, and shared meals. Her faith in the Lord was steadfast and unwavering. She lived her life as a testament to that faith and continually encouraged others to trust in God, love one another, and live with purpose and integrity.

Throughout her life, Elizabeth faced physical challenges with remarkable courage, strength, and resilience. She never allowed difficulties to define her and instead became an inspiration to others facing their own struggles. Her determination, positive spirit, and unwavering faith served as a powerful testament to those experiencing physical difficulties, demonstrating that perseverance and trust in the Lord can sustain a person through life's greatest trials.

Elizabeth leaves behind her beloved children, grandchildren, a cherished sister, and many extended family members and friends who will forever treasure her love, wisdom, strength, resilience, and example.

While her passing leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who loved her, her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now forever free from pain and reunited with her Savior. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the traditions she created, the faith she shared, and the love she so generously gave.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Elizabeth will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, 1:00pm, at the Wright Cemetery. A time of fellowship will be held following the graveside service at the Wright Town Hall, 201 Wright Blvd, Wright, Wyoming. Memorials and condolence may be sent in care of Gillette Memorial Chapel 210 West 5th Street, Gillette, WY 82716.