Lisa Levering

1947 - 2025

On Tuesday, August 19th, after an eight-year battle with Parkinson's disease, Lisa Ann Levering peacefully passed away, surrounded by her daughters, sons-in-laws, her partner of thirty years, William Bronston, and the beloved zinnias from her garden. In her final days, loved ones, both near and far, held her in tremendous love and light. A reflection of the deep connections and devotion she nurtured throughout her life.

Born in Lafayette, California, Lisa attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she earned a degree in Home Economics and was honored as Poly Royal Queen. Since 1976, Lisa and her former husband Robert Levering made Sacramento their home, where they poured their energy, creativity, and love into raising their bright and beautiful daughters Melissa and Kate. Lisa's devotion to family meant homemade meals every evening, elaborate holiday celebrations, family parties for all occasions – and her cheering on her girls at every soccer game and dance competition. Some of her proudest moments were watching her daughter Kate in her Broadway debut in New York City and her daughter Melissa graduating from her alma mater. Because of all of this, friends lovingly referred to Lisa as "June Cleaver." She championed Melissa and Kate through each chapter of life, and her fierce loyalty, encouragement, and belief in their dreams shaped who they became.

A woman of deep curiosity and spirit, Lisa was an avid world traveler who embraced diverse cultures and unique experiences - from riding camels in Egypt to exploring more than 38 countries in far corners of the globe. Her first travel buddy was her beloved sister, Cathy, with whom she shared early adventures that sparked a lifelong passion for exploration. Later in life, she met her ultimate travel partner and adventurer in her partner, Bill, with whom she created countless memories around the world. Lisa's voracious love of travel also inspired her to become a travel agent, planning memorable journeys not only for her family but for friends who trusted her to craft experiences filled with wonder. Her love of the arts likewise knew no bounds, and she enthusiastically embraced her role as "stage mother," nurturing her daughter Kate's journey to Broadway and beyond.

Faith was central to Lisa's life, and her church community at Carmichael Presbyterian became a second family to her for nearly five decades. She served as a deacon, coordinated weddings, supported the food closet, and kept the front office humming - but more than the roles she filled, the warmth she carried into every corner of the church that left a mark. Lisa had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and cared for, and her steady presence helped weave together the sense of community she so deeply cherished.

Equally dedicated to her local schools and community, Lisa devoted her time and energy to the Junior League, the Mission Avenue PTA, El Camino Boosters, and as a steady supporter of El Camino High School students.

Lisa also had a gift for friendship, lovingly forming and maintaining connections through every stage of her life. She was deeply grateful for the sisterhood she found among her childhood friends, college roommates, Mission Moms, Theater Moms, her Red Bra Purple Panty group, investment club, church community, and so many others. Her ability to sustain lasting bonds was a testament to her wisdom and her deep belief that life is about connection, love, and community.

Her devotion only deepened when she became a Grandmother. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and it was hardest for her to know she would be leaving them. A devoted fixture on the sidelines, she cheered them on at soccer, baseball and football games, and never missed a chance to celebrate life's little moments with them. Lisa had a special gift for creating magic: baking her beloved candy cane cookies every Christmas, spreading "holiday cheer" in countless ways, and decorating patriotic bikes for the neighborhood Fourth of July parade. Her grandchildren will forever carry the warmth of her traditions, her unwavering support, and the deep love that only their "Grammy" could give.

Throughout her life, Lisa lived with courage and grace. For eight years she bore the heavy burden of Parkinson's with remarkable strength, never allowing it to dim her spirit or humor. She continued to show up fully for her family and her wide circle of friends, embodying resilience, love and unwavering bravery even in the most difficult moments.

Lisa's family is forever grateful to her devoted caregiver, Dee Barkley, whose steadfast care and friendship carried Lisa through the last two years with dignity and grace. The family honors the extraordinary devotion of Lisa's daughter and next-door neighbor, Melissa Levering, who became her fiercest advocate and most tender caregiver. Melissa's unwavering presence - living just a few steps away, always ready with comfort, laughter, or love - In every way, Melissa gave back to her mother the same fierce devotion and care that Lisa had poured into her family throughout her lifetime.

Lisa's was known for her kindness and connection- a legacy that will continue in the lives of those she touched. Her family will honor her spirit by planting sunflowers and zinnias, traveling the world, making holidays magical, raising a glass of champagne, attending the theatre, nurturing the friendships and communities she so deeply valued, and most importantly, caring for the five grandchildren who were her greatest treasures.

Lisa was preceded in death by her parents, Elbert and Doris Dawson, and her sister, Cathy Canaday. She is survived by her brothers, Elbert and Tim Dawson; her daughters, Melissa Levering and fiancé Christian Norgaard, Kate Levering-Jahangiri and husband Reza Jahangiri; and her adored grandchildren, Abigail and Oliver Clark, and Holden, Greyson, and Ashton Jahangiri. She also leaves behind her partner of thirty years, William Bronston; his daughter, Darya Bronston, and husband Mathew Arf; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family.