Lisa Matos

Lisa Marie Matos, age 53, of Holts Summit, Mo., passed away Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at the University of Missouri Hospital, Columbia, Mo.
She was born on November 3, 1969, in New York City, NY, to Butch Outerbridge and Elba Rodriguez. Lisa's parents both passed away when she was young and she was lovingly taken in by her aunt and uncle, Moises and Sara Gonzalez. They loved her as their own and Lisa grew to consider them her parents.
Lisa graduated from Mable Dean Bacon High School.
On November 13, 1987, in New York, NY, Lisa married Eliseo Matos, Jr. and together they built a beautiful family and a fulfilling life.
Lisa was a woman of integrity with strong work ethic. She was employed with Walmart for many years, transferring and accepting promotions as she traveled with her husband while he was active-duty military. She achieved the position of Human Resources Personnel Manager before leaving the company to pursue another opportunity. Upon settling in Missouri, Lisa began working for the State in the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education where she was greatly valued. Currently, Lisa was working as an Executive Assistant to The Adjutant General for the Missouri Army National Guard. No matter what she did, Lisa did it well and took a lot of pride in her work.
Lisa was the epitome of a social butterfly. Her magnetic energy drew people to her. She filled every room with the warmest welcoming light. Lisa gave hugs that soothed the soul and she found peace relaxing by the ocean. She acted as the glue that held everyone together, whether that be family, friends, or coworkers, she was the essential pillar everyone knew they could lean on. She had a relatable and approachable demeanor making her a great addition to any space.
Above all, Lisa especially cherished her husband, children, and grandchildren. She was the cornerstone of her family. Being a military wife is a sacrifice in and of itself. Lisa supported her best and most beloved friend in his decision to join the United States Army, knowing he would be gone for weeks, months, even years at a time performing his duty. This meant Lisa was maintaining the home, bills, children, work and doing the job of caring for a family as just one person while knowing there is a possibility that she could lose him anytime. Lisa made this sacrifice through multiple deployments and many early mornings and late nights. Though it sometimes felt like they were two ships passing in the night, their love for one another and dedication to their vows remained strong. It wasn't always easy, but the Matos family defied all odds by remaining a strong and connected unit through many years of challenges and sacrifice with commitment and most importantly, love.
She was passionate about showing love and celebrating successes and achievements, not only her own but others' as well. She was everybody's champion. She was always dressed to impress, complete with her signature heels to complete her outfit no matter where she was going. Lisa will be remembered for her genuine soul, caring heart, and her unshakeable love for her family.
Lisa is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Eliseo Matos, Jr.; children, Allison Herring (Michael) of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Cassandra Matos (Matt Gerlach) of Russellville, Mo., and Lillian Matos (Jonathan Broeker) of Jefferson City, Mo.; siblings Francisco Rodriguez (Annie), Fernando Rodriguez (Rosie), Eilene Jones (Chris), Manny Pino (Laura), and Eddie Gonzalez (Kristen); 7 grandchildren, Parker, Hunter, Anaïs, Oliver, Paisley, Bentley, and Aleida; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She is preceded in death by one infant child, Elba Matos; brother, Roberto "Bobby" Rodriguez; and her parents, Butch Outerbridge and Elba Rodriguez.
Lisa's wishes were to be cremated and returned home to her family. Following the cremation, a visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Saturday, December 31, 2022, at Freeman Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.