Lisa Marie Stanley's Obituary
In Loving Memory of a Trailblazing Leader: Lisa Marie Stanley
Lisa, a remarkable and trailblazing individual, passed away on November 4th, 2023, in Decatur, IL. She will forever be remembered as the first African-American woman to hold the esteemed position of Township Supervisor in Decatur, Illinois. With her unwavering dedication, indomitable spirit, and commitment to public service, she left an indelible mark on her community and beyond.
Born and raised in Decatur, IL, on January 20th, 1965, Lisa was the daughter of Halton Robinson and Jacqueline King. She graduated from Eisenhower High School and went on to study Theology at Lincoln Christian University before pursuing a degree in Workforce Education & Development at Southern Illinois University.
Lisa is also a 2005 graduate of the Illinois Women's Institute for Leadership.
Lisa's passion for public service led her to work
as a legislative liaison for former U.S. Rep. David Phelps, and various state agencies, including then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich's office and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. She served as a trusted aide to former Senator Andy Manor running his Decatur office. Lisa served on The Boys & Girls Club of Decatur Board of Directors from 2016-2021. Lisa worked tirelessly to advocate for policies that uplifted marginalized communities and championed social justice.
Lisa was appointed to the Decatur Township Board in 2011 and elected supervisor in 2013, a position she held until her passing.
Throughout her tenure as Township Supervisor, Lisa demonstrated exemplary leadership and a passionate pursuit of equality and fairness. She tirelessly worked to improve the lives of the township's residents, particularly those facing socio-economic challenges. Her compassionate approach and dedication to serving the needs of the community garnered widespread respect and admiration.
Lisa was not only a pioneer in her professional life, but she was also a woman of faith and a pillar to her family. She loved and cherished her family and friends. Lisa was a dedicated member of Realm Global International Ministries. Her loved ones remember her as a role model, a source of inspiration, and a pillar of strength. They will deeply miss her. Lisa's unwavering commitment to her community and her passion for justice will continue to resonate for generations to come.
Lisa is survived by her son, Anthony (Jennifer) Stanley of Orange Park, Florida; granddaughters, Camorre Beasley and Zara Stanley; mother, Jacqueline King; brother, Charles King; sister, Crystal Robinson; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends whom she loved dearly.
Lisa is preceded in death by her father, Halton Robinson; grandmother, Verneida Madison; and family members.
In celebration of Lisa's life, a celebration of life service will commence on Thursday at Moran & Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services located at 2801 N. Monroe, Decatur, IL 62526. Visitation is from 1pm-2pm. Celebration of life service will be at 2pm. Family, friends, and community members are invited to pay their respects and share their memories of Lisa.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Lisa's memory to The Boys & Girls Club of Decatur, an organization that was near and dear to her heart. Contributions can be sent to:
The Boys & Girls Club of Decatur
859 N Jasper St
Decatur, IL 62521
Lisa's impact on her community and the lives she touched will never be forgotten. Her memory will continue to inspire and motivate others to strive for a more just and equitable society. May she rest in peace knowing that her legacy will endure.
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