Elena Alibrandi

Elena Alibrandi, born in Pavia, Italy on December 14, 1967, died peacefully on April 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas. Elena is survived by her mother, Mamma Rosa; and her devoted siblings, Catarina, Mariella, Massimo, and Claudio. Elena was a vibrant, compassionate, and courageous woman whose life was a testament to strength, joy, and love. During her young adult years in Pavia, Italy, Elena worked in the restaurant industry, where her natural hospitality and strong work ethic began to shine. This path eventually led her to manage her family’s restaurant in the heart of Milan, where she further honed her culinary talents and entrepreneurial spirit. In 1999, seeking new opportunities, Elena moved to Houston, Texas. With characteristic determination, she immersed herself in her new community and became fluent in English within a year while studying at the local community college. The following year, Elena enrolled at the University of St. Thomas, nestled in the heart of Houston’s vibrant Montrose district. There, she pursued her passion for learning and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with honors in 2004. Among all her studies, her favorite course was Philosophy of the Human Person — a reflection of her deep curiosity about the human experience and her belief in the power of empathy. Elena often said that truly understanding and caring for others was the key to building strong relationships and offering meaningful service — values she carried throughout her personal and professional life. A gifted communicator fluent in Italian, Spanish, and English, Elena built a meaningful career that reflected both her professionalism and international spirit. From 2005 to 2020, she worked with Mediterranean Shipping Company and Terminal Investment Limited, a global stevedoring enterprise, where her dedication and attention to detail earned her the respect of colleagues. In 2021, Elena brought her talents to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, serving first as a Patient Services Coordinator in the International Assessment Center, and later being recruited to the Blood Bank division. Her engaging personality, compassion for others, and tireless work ethic made her a beloved presence in the lives of patients and staff alike. Elena found joy in many things — traveling the world, cooking traditional Italian meals, hosting joyful gatherings for friends, dancing, gardening and spending quiet moments with her cherished pets, Cookie and Michou. She was a woman of deep warmth and boundless enthusiasm, known for her kind heart and joyful spirit. Even in the face of profound challenges, including a courageous battle with cancer and the loss of her limbs, Elena's strength, dignity, and unwavering positivity remained a source of inspiration. Her life was a beautiful example of resilience, love, and gratitude. To all who knew her, Elena’s presence was a gift. Her radiant spirit, generous heart, and enthusiasm for life will be deeply missed—and lovingly remembered—by all who were blessed to know her. A memorial service to celebrate Elena’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, May 17, 2025 in the Chapel of St. Basil at the University of St. Thomas, 3802 Yoakum Blvd. Houston, TX 77006 Friends and loved ones are invited to attend and honor her memory. In lieu of or in addition to flowers, those wishing to pay tribute may send floral arrangements directly to the Chapel of St. Basil at the address above. Or, please consider a donation in Elena's name to the University of St. Thomas, a place that shaped her deeply.

Elena Alibrandi

December 14, 1967 - April 20, 2025