Lisa Shepard
- On April 1, 2026
- 4 Comments
May 25, 1955 – March 15, 2026
Lisa Shepard lived a life defined by conviction, compassion, and deep connection to others. She had a gravitational pull. A fiercely loyal friend, she was loved, trusted, and respected by those who knew her well. Lisa believed strongly that government and systems should serve people effectively and with compassion, and she was never shy about expressing her views. She spoke her mind with honesty and often with a colorful and memorable flair—qualities that made her both admired and unforgettable.
Professionally, Lisa dedicated her life to helping others as a counselor and leader in behavioral health services in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Through her work with organizations such as Family Services, Pressley Ridge, Chestnut Ridge, Women in Balance, and the American Re-EDucation Association she supported children, families, and communities facing significant challenges. She was deeply committed to trauma-informed care and to improving the systems meant to serve the most vulnerable, bringing both insight and heart to everything she did. As a lifelong learner, she always strived to provide the best care for those she served.
At her core, Lisa was a kind and generous person whose greatest joy was her family. She shared a deep and enduring love with her husband of nearly 49 years, Dave Cavanaugh, a partnership that was central to her life. Dave’s gardening put food on the table and on the shelves he likely built. Lisa loved to cook and can. She found the air fryer to be among the greatest culinary inventions ever. She and Dave shared a love of dogs and welcomed many into their family over the years. Lisa was proud of her Italian heritage and remained close to her parents, Jim and Honey, throughout their lives, as well as to her siblings, Jim, Donna, and Patrick. She was a loyal friend to many, bringing her compassion and wit to every engagement. Lisa was and will be loved by many for years to come.
Lisa leaves behind a legacy of strength and compassion. She lived her life as her true, authentic self. She will be remembered for the way she stood up for what she believed in, the care she showed to others, and the lasting impact she made on both the people she loved and the communities she served.
A celebration of life will be held on May 31, 2026 at Chestnut Ridge Park (Feather Pavillion) in Morgantown, WV, from Noon-4:00pm. Remembrances will be welcome from 1:30-3:00. Family & friends may gather before and after that time.
Memorial donations can be made to any or all of the following organizations:
Boone Animal Rescue Coalition (BARC)
160 Dartmont-Ashford Rd.
Ashford, WV 25009
Greene County Humane Society
183 Jefferson Road
Waynesburg, PA 15370
(724) 627-9988
National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center
http://www.niwrc.org
12 Bowstrings St.
Lame Deer, MT 59043
(406) 477-3896
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