Laurissa Maria "Liss" Mondragon

Laurissa Maria Mondragon, departed from this life on February 7, 2024, in Salinas, California, at the age of 36. Born on the celebratory day 4th of July 1987, in Monterey, she was a beacon of joy and kindness, touching the hearts of those around her with her warm smile and generous nature.

Laurissa's profound compassion and empathy were her gifts to the world, allowing her to connect with others in a deeply meaningful way. Her devout faith and love of Jesus Christ coupled with boundless love for her children and family was astronomical.

From 2013 to 2018, Laurissa, along with Jacey and Cameron, moved to North Carolina and loved it.
She and the kids eventually returned California. She married and expanded her family with the birth of her youngest, Novah.

Laurissa found solace and joy in the kitchen, where she recreated the cherished tradition of Sunday Italian dinners from her childhood with her signature red sauce.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and nurturing, survived by her three children, Jacey, Cameron, and Novah; her parents, Dan Mondragon and Kathleen Hannah; and her brothers, Jason and Daniel Mondragon. Her life was further enriched by her nieces and nephews, Avery, Jullian, Braydon, Bryce, and Brooks Mondragon, as well as numerous great aunts and uncles, aunts, uncles, and cousins and many lifelong friends. Laurissa was predeceased by her grandparents Paul and Linda Mondragon, Peter and Sally Curatolo and her stepfather, Donald G. Johnston.

Educated at Monterey High School, Laurissa's chosen jobs spanned the fields of hospitality, construction office work, and marketing. Her personal interests included a love of music and a passion for culinary arts.

A celebration of Laurissa's life will be held on February 17, 2024, at the Monterey Elks, located at 150 Mar Vista Dr., Monterey, California. The service will commence at noon.

In remembrance of Laurissa, donations may be made to Sun Street Centers - The Road to Recovery. Contributions can be mailed to Sun Street Centers, 11 Peach Drive, Salinas, CA 93901, ATTN: Community Development, or made online at www.sunstreetcenters.org.

The Monterey Elks is honored to assist with the arrangements for Laurissa's Celebration of Life. Her memory will be cherished, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched.