Elsie Rios Hand

Elsie Rios Hand, 74 years old, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida passed away July 12, 2025. Born in The Bronx of New York City, New York, daughter of Auria Vangas and William Rios, Sr. 

She was married to Philip Wayne Hand in Fort Walton Beach. A veteran in the United States Air Force as a staff sergeant, Elsie was very proud to have served her country.

She is survived by her halfbrother, William Rios, Jr., of New York City, New York; stepdaughter, Yvette Hand Delay; stepdaughter, Philis Hand Green; stepdaughter, Annette Hand Stephens; brother-in-law, George Hand; sister-in-law, Theresa Hand of Sarasota, Florida; brother-in-law, Albert Hand; and sister-in-law, Eileen Hand of Anchorage, Alaska. Elsie was preceded in death by her husband and parents. 

Always a faithful member of every church she attended, Elsie was always dedicated to paying her tithes, and helping others, as well as making them laugh.

She was a joy to be around and was the most thoughtful and giving person to others without ever thinking about herself. She loved her husband, Philip W. Hand, very much.

A funeral service is planned for Elsie on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery at 1 Cemetery Road, Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida.

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home. To share memories, please visit the website.