Alice Elaine London of Key West passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the age of 79, following a brief illness. Elaine was born on July 5, 1945, to her mother, Nettie Katherine Stikeleather, and her father, Benjamin Stikeleather, who was her very best friend. She spent the first 18 years of her life on the family farm in Statesville, North Carolina, before venturing out to explore the world and seek new opportunities.

Upon arriving in the Florida Keys, Elaine quickly became an integral part of the community. Her career background was in human resources, banking, and accounting, and she made a significant impact on Key West as a loan officer. Her keen ability to identify promising business ventures and provide financial support greatly contributed to the economic landscape of the area. She was well-respected, appreciated, and loved by many in the community. Elaine was married to Jack London, and they enjoyed over 25 years of marriage until Jack's sudden passing in 2006. After her retirement in 2021, Elaine embraced a peaceful and simple life in her Key West home.

She is predeceased by her parents, Katherine and Ben, and her brother, David Stikeleather. Elaine is survived by her children, Leo Masters and Kimberly Masters; her stepdaughters, Mary London, Stephanie London, and Janine London; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. As the eldest of four siblings, she is also survived by her brother, Paul Stikeleather, and her sister, Kathy Linley.

Elaine was a trailblazer who marched for women's and civil rights during a time when doing so was not widely accepted. She was a selfless and generous person, positively impacting many lives in her quiet, unassuming way. Her grandchildren will fondly remember her love for Dairy Queen milkshakes, mayo sandwiches, a good long read, and, above all, her kindness—not just toward friends and family, but also strangers.

Though she lived on a small island, Elaine's impact was immense, and she will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Wesley House Family Services at https://www.wesleyhouse.org/donate/ and note that it is in memory of Elaine London Thank you!