Lisa C. Stevens—devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend and faithful servant of the Lord, peacefully entered eternal rest on February 16, 2026, with her loving daughter by her side.
Lisa was born on April 1, 1959, in Huntington, West Virginia, to Arlen Stevens, Sr. (Lorraine) and Lillie (Harris) Branch. She was raised in Akron, Ohio, where she attended Akron Public Schools and proudly graduated from Buchtel High School, Class of 1977. Following high school, Lisa continued her education at Kent State University, where she studied Nursing. During her time at Kent, she embraced college life, enjoyed socializing and lived life to its fullest. It was there she joined a group known as the Kappa Kittens, which sparked her lifelong love for the color red.
Although Lisa explored various career paths after leaving Kent State, she ultimately returned to her first love—serving others in the medical field, where her nurturing spirit flourished. A natural caregiver, Lisa was known for her compassion, gentleness, knowledge and attention to detail. As a health care provider, she was known for the exceptional care to all she served, most especially her clients and her beloved mother, Lillie Branch. Without question, caregiving was Lisa’s gift, her calling and her ministry.
On February 11, 1982, Lisa welcomed the greatest joy of her life—her daughter, CarLisa Nicole Williams (Johnson). Lisa proudly ensured her name was reflected in her daughter’s, by always spelling it with a capital “L,” and she never hesitated to correct anyone who got it wrong. Lisa and CarLisa shared an unbreakable bond, and Lisa’s face would light up whenever she spoke of her one and only child.
Lisa’s family had deep spiritual roots at First Apostolic Faith Church, now known as The Faith Place, where her grandmother Mary Smith and mother Lillie Branch were faithful members. Raised in a praying family and church, Lisa knew the importance of faith. On December 10, 2001, she recommitted her life and was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit. From that day forward, Lisa committed her life fully to the Lord and never looked back. She served faithfully wherever needed, including as Usher Board President, Greeter, Missionary, Nurse and in any capacity where her gifts and heart for service could be used. Lisa’s favorite scripture was Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”
Lisa was also a devoted friend of Bill and Bob for 24 years and treasured the lifelong friendships she found there. She loved to travel and especially cherished her annual trips to the Cincinnati Jazz Festival. Music brought her joy, and if there was a concert within driving distance, Lisa was sure to be there.
Lisa was preceded in death by her father, Arlen Stevens, Sr.; her grandmother, Mary Smith; her aunt, Wilma Smith; and her special friend, Allan Thomas.
She leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving mother, Lillie Branch; daughter, CarLisa (Luther) Johnson; grandchildren, BreAysia Moorer, Aaron Smith, and Gavin Johnson; great-granddaughter, Valentina Smith; granddog, Nala; sister, Denise Johnson; brothers, Arlen (Brenda) Stevens Jr., Mark (Beatrice) Stevens, and Charles Branch; extended family, Carl Williams (Karen), Sharon McMillan, Ann Johnson and Cynthia Robinson; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; countless friends; former clients and patients; all whom she lovingly cared for; and her much-loved Faith Place church family.
To say Lisa will be missed is an understatement. While we mourn her passing, we rejoice knowing she is now in the presence of the Lord she loved and served so faithfully.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon at First Apostolic Faith Church, 790 Easter Ave. Akron, Oh 44307.