The family of Lisa Gayle Pellen is deeply saddened to announce her sudden and unexpected passing.

Born to an English mother who loved children and a German father who was a deeply talented artist, Lisa grew up in Canada surrounded by her four sisters and brother. She loved birthday cakes, celebrations, creating her own art, and Christmas. Her happiest memories were of family gathered together for good food and laughter—no matter what challenges they faced, joy was always found around the table within the hubbub of the Pellen family.

Lisa was a survivor in every sense of the word—though she was so humble, she likely never would have called herself that. Born on November 8, 1963, she faced extraordinary challenges throughout her life with courage, humor, and faith. At nineteen, she gave birth to her beloved son, Adrian, who was the center of her heart. She called him “Baby Adrian,” well into his own chapter of fatherhood, a name that carried the boundless love and pride only a mother could know.

Lisa was the cherished daughter of Jean and Ann Pellen (née Harris), the loving mother of Adrian Pellen (Emily), and a proud grandmother, lovingly known as Grandma Lisa, to Aurin Pellen, who brought her immense happiness and light.
She is predeceased by her sister, Melinda Pellen (Phil), and lovingly remembered and survived by her siblings Patricia, Jeanine (Steve), Dean, and Dana Pellen, and by her many nieces and nephews—Tara, Kassandra (Jeremy), Alexa (Evan), Zinaida, Teryn, Rory (Peyton), Justin (Kirsten), Nikolas (Ally), Stefany, Ryan, Jesse, and Chase.

Living with schizophrenia—a rare and complex mental illness—Lisa met each day with remarkable resilience and spirit despite its profound weight. Though her illness limited the experiences many of us take for granted and, at times, felt like a prison, Lisa was always quick to laugh and found joy in life’s simple things—good food, the warmth of family, and the comfort of her beloved Bible verses. She had an incredible memory, able to recall the smallest family details and even the exact price of a grocery sale item—an endearing quirk that made everyone smile. She noticed all the small things and it warmed the hearts of those around her.

Lisa will be remembered for her quiet strength, her unwavering love for family, and her ability to find joy in life’s simplest moments, even in the face of great struggle. She never complained, always did her best, and met hardship with grace and persistence. Though she was often a gentle presence, her raucous laughter could fill a room—especially at Christmas dinners, her face alight as she enjoyed a spiral ham among those she loved. Her life was not easy, but it was brave, and her laughter, love, and resilience will echo forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

A private family service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at York Cemetery in Toronto. In honor of Lisa’s life, friends and loved ones are invited to donate to the Canadian Mental Health Association - Durham, whose compassionate care supported her and continues to help families living with mental illness.