Lisa Anne Heathman

Lisa Anne Heathman March 4, 1965 – January 4, 2026 On January 4, 2026, the world lost a bright and irreplaceable light. Lisa Anne Heathman transitioned peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her. At just 60 years old, she leaves behind a legacy defined by a steadfast commitment to showing up fully in every part of her life. 

For seven years, she lived alongside cancer with grit, honesty, humor, and an awe-inspiring strength. Though the disease took much from her body, it never touched the essence of who she was—curious, compassionate, resilient, and determined. As one of her favorite quotes reminds us, “The devil whispered, ‘You cannot withstand the storm.’ The warrior replied, ‘I am the storm.’” 

Lisa was born on March 4, 1965, in Portland, Oregon, to Susan Dennis and Larry King, and was later adopted by Greg and Cecily Heathman. She spent her childhood between Southwest Portland and Honolulu, Hawaii, places that shaped her enthusiasm for both community and adventure. After graduating from Lincoln High School, she worked to support herself while earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Portland, where she studied Journalism, Advertising, and Business. 

One of Lisa’s most beloved jobs during this time was at Boyd’s Pet Store in Portland. She never met a stray cat she could ignore and believed deeply that every animal deserved care, comfort, and protection. Her passion for animals remained lifelong and unmistakable. 

Professionally, Lisa built a remarkable 32-year career in public relations and global brand marketing. She served as a trusted advisor to organizations around the world, helping them tell their stories, navigate challenges, and succeed with confidence. She took great pride in her work, not for recognition, but because doing it well mattered deeply to her. 

She was widely respected for her writing, storytelling, and commitment to excellence. A supervisor recently wrote, “We created some of the most powerful content in the past year and a half, thanks in large part to Lisa’s remarkable storytelling gift, strategic mind, compassion, relentless curiosity, and warmth. Through her words and craft, she brought ideas and people to life, and she inspired us all by how she carried herself with positivity and grace.” 

Beyond her career, Lisa was passionate about movement, service, and justice. She was a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, an accomplished cyclist with OBRA, and the 2016 Masters Women’s Best All Around Rider. She served on numerous boards and leadership teams, including Habitat for Humanity Metro East, Reborn Bikes, Free Bikes 4 Kids, Friends of the Children, Pink Lemonade Project, her local HOA, and Ski Patrol at Timberline Lodge. 

She lived boldly on black diamond ski runs, rugged mountain bike trails, and even at the sushi counter, enjoying sea urchin and quail eggs. She also found pleasure in quieter moments as a devoted dog mom to Cooper, an avid gardener, and a fondness for Cabernet Sauvignon. She advocated fiercely for early detection and breast cancer awareness and refused to let cancer define her or diminish her contributions. 

She is survived by her life partner, Thomas James, and his children, Trinity and Zechariah; her daughters, Caitlin Buyserie (Steven) and Lauren Martin (Wesley Grady); her first husband and lifelong friend, Tom Martin; her mother, Susan Dennis Langham; and her siblings Chris Heathman (Robyn), Jeffrey Heathman (nieces Staci and Rachel), Jeffrey Thompson (Rachel; nieces Grace and Lucy; nephew Gabriel), and Dr. Lori Porter (David; nieces Fallon, Raeanna, and Willow). She was preceded in death by her adoptive parents, Greg and Cecily Heathman, and her second husband and beloved friend, Lee Rooklin. 

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Finn Partners for their compassion and support, to the St. Luke’s Home Hospice team for their extraordinary care, to Susan Stearns for friendship and unwavering support, to Dr. Lori Porter for tireless advocacy and expertise, and to the Highland Estates neighbors whose kindness and care made it possible for Lisa to remain surrounded by comfort and community until her last breath. 

A celebration of Lisa’s life will be held at a future date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Lisa’s memory to Pink Lemonade Project. These funds will provide resources and support for women living with metastatic breast cancer. Follow the link to donate: https://pinklemonadeproject.org/donate/mbc-fund

Online condolences may be left at www.mccallfunerals.com

Arrangements in care of McCall Funeral Home.