Lisa Funsch Sarasota, Florida Death: It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lisa Funsch, a beloved mother, wife, and artist, who tragically left us too soon. Lisa, a lifelong resident of Sarasota, Florida, passed away on March 27, 2025, at the age of 52, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and kindness that will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves through the Sarasota community, a place she called home, where her impact as a mother, artist, and compassionate friend was immeasurable.
Born on November 12, 1972, in Sarasota, Lisa’s life was defined by her unwavering devotion to her family and her passion for the arts. As a child, she demonstrated an early love for creativity, frequently drawing, painting, and exploring the world through the lens of her imagination. It was clear from an early age that Lisa was destined to be an artist, and she nurtured this calling throughout her life. Her talent and dedication to her craft flourished as she studied at the Sarasota Art School, where she honed her skills and deepened her understanding of art, culture, and design. Lisa’s work was often inspired by nature, capturing the beauty of the world around her in vibrant, evocative pieces that drew praise from art lovers across the region.
Lisa’s artistic talents were not confined to the canvas alone. She was an advocate for the arts in Sarasota, actively involved in local galleries, art festivals, and cultural events. She took great joy in collaborating with other artists, participating in exhibitions, and giving back to the community by mentoring young aspiring artists. Her work was a reflection of her deeply empathetic nature, as she used her art to connect with others, tell stories, and spark conversations about the beauty and complexity of life.
Despite her success and recognition in the local arts scene, Lisa’s true passion lay in her role as a mother and wife. Lisa was married to her high school sweetheart, Mark Funsch, with whom she shared a love story that spanned decades. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and a deep sense of mutual respect. Lisa was a devoted wife who supported Mark in every endeavor, standing by him through the ups and downs of life with grace and unwavering loyalty. Her commitment to her family was the foundation of her existence, and she poured all of her love and energy into her two children, Alex and Sofia.
As a mother, Lisa was nothing short of extraordinary. Her love for her children was boundless, and she dedicated herself to raising them with compassion, creativity, and a deep sense of integrity. Lisa was always present for her children, whether it was attending school events, cheering them on at sporting competitions, or simply offering a listening ear when they needed to talk. Her nurturing spirit and boundless love provided Alex and Sofia with a safe, supportive home, and her impact on their lives will be felt forever.
Lisa’s love extended beyond her immediate family to the many friends and loved ones who had the privilege of knowing her. She was the kind of person who made everyone feel welcome and valued, always going out of her way to show kindness and generosity. Her infectious laugh, warm smile, and positive attitude made her a friend to everyone, and she had a unique ability to make people feel seen and heard. Whether it was offering a heartfelt compliment, a helping hand, or simply a comforting presence, Lisa’s kindness was boundless.
Lisa’s passing leaves an enormous void in the lives of those who knew her, particularly her family. Mark, Alex, and Sofia are heartbroken at the loss of the woman who was the cornerstone of their world. Lisa is also survived by her parents, Carol and Thomas Ellison, her brother Jason Ellison, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Her extended family and friends are equally devastated by the loss of such an incredible woman, whose warmth and love made every gathering brighter.
In addition to her artistic and familial achievements, Lisa was also a tireless volunteer in the Sarasota community. She worked with various charitable organizations, using her talents and resources to improve the lives of others. Her volunteer work focused on supporting local youth arts programs, providing underprivileged children with the opportunity to explore their own creative potential. Lisa believed deeply in the power of art to transform lives and was committed to making the arts accessible to all members of the community, regardless of background or financial means.
As a member of several local community groups, Lisa also helped organize charity events, fundraising efforts, and initiatives aimed at supporting Sarasota’s artistic and cultural growth. Her dedication to community service was a natural extension of her kindheartedness and her belief in the importance of giving back. Those who worked with Lisa in these efforts were always struck by her professionalism, her tireless work ethic, and her ability to inspire others to contribute to meaningful causes.
Though Lisa’s time with us was far too short, her impact on Sarasota and all who knew her is immeasurable. Her work as an artist, her devotion to her family, and her boundless generosity have left an indelible mark on the community she cherished. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the life she lived—one filled with creativity, love, and a commitment to making the world a better place for everyone around her.
A memorial service to honor Lisa’s life will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Sarasota Art Center, where Lisa spent many of her years giving back to the arts community she loved so dearly. The service will include tributes from her family, friends, and colleagues, as well as a special exhibition of some of Lisa’s most cherished works of art. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sarasota Youth Arts Program, an organization close to Lisa’s heart that helps young people access creative opportunities.
In these difficult times, we take comfort in knowing that Lisa’s legacy will live on in the art she created, the family she nurtured, and the many lives she touched with her kindness and generosity. Her passing is a reminder to cherish every moment, to spread kindness wherever we can, and to always follow our passions with the same dedication that Lisa did.
Rest in peace, Lisa Funsch. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Your spirit, creativity, and love will continue to inspire us all.
