Lisa Francesca Scandurra

Lisa Francesca Scandurra, born on October 26, 1951, in San Francisco, passed away from returning cancer on March 8, 2025, at her home in Novato, CA. She was 73 years old.

Lisa was the firstborn of three children to her parents, Jane and Pippo Scandurra. She was a loving sister to her siblings, Margaret and Michael.

A lifelong artist, painting, drawing, mosaics, or collage, her work was a deeply personal journey. Art was her refuge, and she continued to create until the very end. Her home was filled with her art and every available wall space was taken. Like her mother, she decorated envelopes with her frequent handwritten letters in a way that must have amazed and delighted the post office.

In her early years, Lisa pursued careers as a hairdresser and as a graphic designer. Later on, Lisa dedicated over 15 years to The Cedars of Marin, enriching the arts program for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Lisa loved reading and film noir and was known for her infectious sense of humor. With her quick wit and great vocabulary, whether playing Mad Libs, scrabble, or Canasta, with friends and family, or sharing a funny anecdote, Lisa brought joy and laughter to those around her.

Her honesty was often refreshingly candid, and at times, inappropriately so, but those who knew her well, admired this unfiltered truthfulness that made her unique and unforgettable.

Throughout her life, Lisa shared her heart with many pets, all of whom she loved dearly. Her dog Bella, a rescue from Taiwan, who passed away in the summer of 2024, was a true comfort to her in her final years.

She leaves behind her son, Francesco, with whom she remained close throughout their lives.