Elizabeth K. Barry, a first-year student in Arts & Sciences, died Dec. 8 in her room in Rubelmann House residence hall on the Danforth Campus. Barry, of Homewood, Ill., was 19.
The St. Louis County Medical Examiner told Washington University that examinations performed Dec. 9 were inconclusive, but said there were no signs of foul play and no signs of meningitis or other life-threatening infectious diseases. Further tests will be performed and it may take up to six weeks for a final determination.
Barry, a 2008 honors graduate of Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School, was a member of the University crew team and had participated in Leadership Through Service, a program that involves community service, leadership training and workshops. She recently signed up to take part in sorority recruitment.
“The University extends its deepest sympathies to her family, friends and classmates. The death of a member of the University community is a tragic loss, and the University is offering personal counseling to those affected by her passing,” said James E. McLeod, vice chancellor for students and dean of the College of Arts & Sciences.
For assistance, students may contact their resident advisor or may call the University’s Habif Health and Wellness Center during daytime hours at 935-6695.
“Liz was a fantastic person,” said senior Ashley Lozito, co-captain of the crew team. “She was an inspiration to everyone she knew. I’m incredibly happy to have known her.”
Members of the crew team will attend Saturday’s funeral.
Visitation for Barry will be from 3-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at Ryan Funeral Home, 18022 Dixie Highway, Homewood, Ill., 60430. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, at St. Joseph’s Church, 17951 Dixie Highway, in Homewood.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to “Operation Snowball,” care of Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School, 999 Kedzie Ave., Flossmoor, Ill., 60422.
Washington University will hold a memorial service on campus when students return for the spring semester in January.