Lisa Jean Erskine, age 59, was born on June 25, 1964 to Paul and Catherine Erskine in Bangor, Maine. She passed away on October 30, 2023 in Knoxville, TN.

Professionally, Lisa was a licensed Family Therapist-turned-“Robin Hood”. She was small in stature, but bigger than life— bursting with bright light and vibrant energy. Close friends and family affectionately remember the conflicting facets that made her priceless. She was a “princess” and “high maintenance” as well as a minimalist and inherently practical. During the lean times, she could make a single dollar stretch farther than anyone and still give generously. “Sassy Red” was a “firecracker” — brave, bold, and brash; but soft, sensitive and vulnerable. She was true to herself and proved to be a strong, independent, adventurous woman who “made things happen” and invited others along for the ride as she traveled the world. She was wise beyond her years and genuinely invested in the lives of those encompassed in her wide circle—trustworthy and fiercely devoted and loyal to “[her] people” (by blood or bond). She selflessly gave love, care, compassion, and support to each one—listening intently and speaking truth into our lives without mincing her words. One, who was much-loved, described her as “my oasis”, which resonates with those of us who ever experienced a walk with her on the beach, a trail, the woods, or a mountain. She loved those walks.

Lisa was an integral part of our lives and we are each experiencing the mingled feelings and emotions tied to our loss. She will be (and is already) sorely missed and deeply mourned. We are thankful for her life and legacy—the gift she was to each of us. Her faith and hope in Jesus gives us comfort in the assurance that we, through Him, will see her again. Until then, we know she is with her Savior and her beloved Mama planning the best reunion party ever.

She is survived by her father Paul Edward Erskine; husband Cecil Simmons; children Josh (Katie) Wenzel, Bryan Wenzel, and Tyler Erskine; step-daughter Sarah Jenson; grandchildren Jaron Wenzel and Nathan Wenzel; siblings Kimberly (John) Vercoe and David (Kimberly) Erskine; mother-in-law Linda Simmons; sister-in-law Kristie (Gary) Winningham; brother-in-law Jason (Chrishell) Simmons; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Lisa was preceded in death by her mother Catherine Ruth (Bradbury) Erskine; brother Mark Erskine; and father-in-law Lowell Simmons.

Services will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023 at Crossville Memorial Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 11am-1pm, with the service to follow at 1pm, Cris Cannon officiating. Burial will be in Akins Cemetery immediately following the service.