Beverly Gough

On the night of Saturday October 25, 2025, Beverly E Gough peacefully, in her sleep, passed away.

Beverly was born on October 8, 1949, in Washington, DC, while her family was residing in Arlington, VA. During her childhood, the family relocated to a home in Silver Spring, MD, situated across from Sligo Creek Park. Beverly attended Blair High School and graduated in 1967. She then pursued higher education at the University of Maryland, where she earned Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in both Sociology and Social Work.

After completing her studies, Beverly began her professional journey at the Washington, DC Family Services Administration, working as a case manager. She later joined the family-owned Business Publishers Inc., where she served as the editor of BPI’s Environmental Directory.

Beverly took considerable pride in her professional achievements and in her role as both Tommy’s mother and baseball coach; also, she especially valued the close relationship she had with her eldest sister, Carol. In December 1986, Beverly, serving as founder and president, led the Eiserer Family in establishing the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation, Inc. (CJCF), in memory of Carol Jean Eiserer. Carol was a dedicated schoolteacher in Montgomery County, MD, who passed away at age 43 from a malignant brain tumor. The mission of CJCF was to provide free recreational and support programs for children diagnosed with cancer and their families—a purpose inspired by Carol’s commitment to children and an understanding of the severe impact cancer can have, particularly on children.

Throughout its history, the Carol Jean Cancer Foundation (CJCF) developed and offered a variety of support programs designed to meet the diverse needs of children with cancer and their families. These programs included Lori’s Junior Day Camp, which provided younger children an opportunity to participate in day camp activities; Brothers and Sisters Together, a program supporting siblings of children with cancer; Beth’s Children, Time for Moms and Dads, and The Seashell Connection, each addressing specific aspects of family support and connection; and Teen Scene, which offered older children and teens a space to engage with peers facing similar challenges.

Among all these initiatives, CJCF’s “premier program” was Camp Friendship. Held at the Foundation’s specially built camp facility, Camp Friendship was designed to accommodate the unique needs of children living with cancer. The camp became a cornerstone of CJCF’s mission, providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where children could participate in recreational activities and find comfort alongside others who understood their experiences.

In fall 1991, CJCF held a dedication ceremony and Fall Festival at its new “Camp Friendship” facility. Thanks to Beverly, her family, local business leaders, organizations, volunteers, and a state grant, the multi-structure camp in Sunshine, MD was completed. The camp’s health center, supervised by medical staff from Children’s National Medical Center and Sinai Hospital, was equipped to provide oncology treatment for campers.

From 1992 to 2009, CJCF organized multiple weeklong overnight camps at Camp Friendship annually, as well as other events of varying durations.

After the 2009 camping season, Beverly and the CJCF Board relocated Camp Friendship due to external factors. From 2010 to 2013, the camp took place at NorthBay near North East, MD, enabling the program to expand and merge multiple weeks into one thanks to the facility's larger capacity.

In 2014 and 2015, CJCF merged several programs into the Family Weekend program at Hyatt Chesapeake Resort in Cambridge, MD. Parents enjoyed amenities like tennis, golf, boat cruises, and spa relaxation while children attended camp activities. Families also shared group meals and participated in evening events together.

After 2015, smaller CJCF support programs continued until Covid struck in 2020 and after 34 years, CJCF, like many other small non-profits, did not survive.

Beverly was an avid lover of her dogs – Samantha, Willie, Terra, Jazzie, Indy, and Mandy, her Koi pond fish and wildlife in general, but especially elephants. She often organized family gatherings and travelled with her husband, Ed, as well as on trips with her son Tommy's family.

Beverly was preceded in death by parents Leonard A. C. Eiserer, Lorraine (Hickey) Eiserer, sister Carol J Eiserer and son Thomas “Tommy” L Gough III.

Beverly “Bev” “Mimi” is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 25 years, Edward H. Griffith. She is also survived by her sister, Elaine R. Eiserer, and her brother, Leonard A. Eiserer, along with his wife, Patrica A. Eiserer. Beverly’s family circle includes her daughter-in-law, Molly J. Gough, and her stepchildren, Brett E. Griffith and his wife Jennifer, as well as Britney N. Griffith. She leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Gracynn and Hawkins Gough, Anna and Alexandra Beer, and Caelan and Ethan Griffith. Beverly is also survived by her first husband, Thomas L. Gough II, and his wife Judi.

A Celebration of Life for Beverly will take place at a future date. Memorial donations in her name may be made instead of sending flowers to:

Children’s National Hospital Foundation

1 Inventa Place, 6th Floor

Silver Spring, MD 20910