Lisa R. Lavelle

Obituary for Lisa R Lavelle

Lisa R Lavelle (neé Rentschler) of Harleysville, PA, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in her home on August 14 after a short illness. She was 66 years old. Lisa was born on August 7, 1958, to John and Barbara Rentschler in Kingston, PA.

The second child of five, Lisa spent most of her childhood with her tightknit Catholic family in Webster, NY. She attended St. Rita’s School and showed an early penchant for poetry and the arts. Lisa studied English at the University of Buffalo, where she met lifelong friends and wrote edgy articles for the independent newspaper under her pen names, “Scarlet Begonia” and “the Wild Turkey.” During and after college, she went on adventures abroad and across the country—living in Paris, Israel, New York City, and Los Angeles. She loved regaling friends and family with stories from this exciting time—from frequenting Grateful Dead concerts to meeting Rick James (twice!) when she worked at a vintage clothing store.

In 1987, Lisa returned to Rochester to earn a Master’s in Print Science at the Rochester Institute of Technology. There, she met the love of her life, Bill Lavelle, who was instantly attracted to Lisa’s wit and confidence. The two moved to Evans Falls, PA, where they married, had eldest daughter Kate, and enjoyed cooking trout caught fresh from Bowman’s Creek as it flowed into the Susquehanna River. After moving for several years to Austin, TX, the Lavelles settled in the Philadelphia area and had youngest daughter Jude.

Lisa spent most of her life in Harleysville, PA, where she became enmeshed in the community as an active volunteer and talented local artisan. Lisa saw art in all the things around her, taking simple, old, or mundane items and bringing them back for a beautiful second life. Lisa developed exceptional skills in tilemaking, mosaics, photography, and collage, and she sold her wares throughout eastern PA. Lisa’s varied professional career also spanned work in print science, communications, childcare, and hospitality. Of note, she served coffee, compassion, and wisdom for many years at the Lederach Tea Room. Ever passionate about justice and community, Lisa also volunteered for several local progressive candidates and causes.

As a mother and lifelong lover of children, Lisa was especially engaged in her volunteer work with young people—including at Oak Ridge Elementary, where both daughters attended school. In 1999, she partnered with art teacher Elizabeth Borowski to launch the Oak Ridge Tile Wall project. All graduating fifth graders are invited to create a unique ceramic tile to capture their memories and express themselves. The tile wall has been decorated by more than 2,000 community youngsters, and the tradition continues now in its 26th year.

Known as an affectionate friend, wife, mother, sister, and daughter, Lisa frequently went out of her way to make others feel special with elaborate theme parties or trips to see live music. Her kids recall many family dinners filled with belly laughs and surprisingly good Tex Mex. Creative, independent, and endlessly curious, Lisa was not afraid to explore new passions and express her distinct style. She could typically be spotted sporting a Hawaiian shirt, overalls, and earrings that jangled as she walked. A tall and radiant woman who always had a story to tell, Lisa had an imposing yet warm presence. She was never easily forgotten, and she will surely be missed.

Lisa was predeceased by her father John, as well as several treasured aunts, uncles, and good friends. She is survived by her husband William; daughters Kathryn and Judith and sons-in-law William and Christopher; mother Barbara; siblings John, Linda, Paula, Susan, and their spouses; father-in-law William, mother-in-law Lois, and aunt Claudia; many beloved nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and -nephew; several dear lifelong friends; and loyal dog and familiar Reese. An informal celebration of Lisa’s life will be held at the Wild Quail Golf & Country Club in Wyoming, DE, on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Philadelphia Magic Gardens info@phillymagicgardens.org or to Heifer International (at fundraise.heifer.org/LisaLavelle). Arrangements by Short Funeral Services Inc, 609 E Market Street, Georgetown, DE.

Further Celebration of Life Information:

Please join the family for an informal celebration of Lisa’s life.

When: Saturday, September 7, 2024, 11am

Where: Wild Quail Golf & Country Club | 1 Clubhouse Dr, Wyoming, DE 19934

Wear: In honor of Lisa's style and values, please dress casually and come as you are. No need to wear black unless you wish to. As Lisa's wedding invitation said, "Do not wash your car or buy a new outfit."

There will be an opportunity at the beginning of the event for anyone who wishes to say a few words.

Online condolences are welcome for the family at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com