Frank Lisella

Watkinsville, GA--Frank Scott Lisella, 81, died peacefully on Thursday, January 18, at home with family at his bedside, after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Frank was vital and active into his late 70's despite many underlying health problems. His professional accomplishments were many but most important to him were his ties to family and friends. Born in 1936 to Bertha and Frank Lisella, he grew up in Summit Hill, PA. Dr. Lisella received his BS from Millersville University, Pennsylvania, Masters of Public Health degree from Tulane University, and a PhD in Preventive Medicine and Environmental Health from the University of Iowa. He received the Distinguished Service Award, from Millersville University in 1981 and the 2010 Outstanding Alumni Award from the University of Iowa College of Public Health. Dr. Lisella's career in public health practice spanned over 50 years. Following his Masters degree, he worked for the Pennsylvania Department of Health. In 1964, he joined the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, retiring in 1987 with a rank of Captain. While with the Corps, he worked primarily at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and completed his service there as Director of the Office of Biosafety. Dr. Lisella was also active in the global public health arena consulting with organizations such as, the Pan-American Health Organization, and the World Health Organization, where he chaired the WHO Committee on Environmental Health Planning and Management. He authored numerous scientific papers and reports and served as editor for the "Dictionary of Environmental Health and Safety." Survivors include his wife, Lynn; stepsons, Michael and Bradley Herring; brother, Richard Lisella; sister, Audrey Flamm and their families. Frank carried out his heartfelt commitment to environmental quality on family property, Splitrock Farm, in Elbert County, GA. He was steadfast in his love for the land and for his friends and family. He received the Forest Stewardship Award from the Georgia Forestry Commission in 2002 and 2008. A memorial service will be held at Watkinsville United Methodist Church, Watkinsville, GA at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Frank S. Lisella Endowment for Biology, Millersville University Foundation, Duncan Alumni House, PO Box 1002, Millersville, PA 17551-0302.