b. September 20, 1994—d. September 7, 2024
Lisa Ellen Emerson, daughter of Cheryl and Eric Emerson, died suddenly on Saturday, September 7, at age 29, from a heart complication. Along with her parents and stepmother Lisha Silver, wife to Eric Emerson, Lisa is survived by her twin brother William Emerson and wife Sara, nieces Amelia and Ella Emerson, younger siblings Russell and Carrie Emerson, Nate Silver, her grandmother Shirley Emerson, aunt Ellen Emerson and uncle Terry Peters, her beloved dog Macchiato, and cats Fozzie and Jericho.
Lisa’s life passion was to cure disease. She pursued an unwavering course of education, with a BS in biological sciences from Clemson University (2016), an MSPH in global epidemiology from the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University (2019), and a PhD in microbiology from the University of Florida (2023). At the time of her death, Lisa worked at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, GA, with a team of researchers studying new and emerging respiratory viruses.
A list of academic achievements does not begin to capture the boundless curiosity, generosity, and sense of family that Lisa brought to every social and professional setting she touched. Lisa was a guardian of animals, a fierce protector of her siblings, and forthright in articulating her perspectives with a wisdom and integrity beyond her years. She was an avid swing dancer, Humane Society volunteer, blood and organ donor, hiker, and loyal friend.
In words of tribute from Dr. Sue Tong, Lisa’s CDC mentor and supervisor, “Her dedication to public health was evident in everything she did, and her bright, eager spirit promised a future filled with impactful contributions. The world has lost a brilliant young scientist whose passion and potential were inspiring to all who knew her. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the work she loved.”
Friends of Lisa are invited to join the family for a drop-in Celebration of Life gathering at Napa at Kingsley in Fort Mill, South Carolina, on Sunday, September 22, between 12:00—3:30pm. Guests will share a buffet-style luncheon while friends and family share stories and open-mic tributes to Lisa. As a Celebration of Life, the family requests guests to wear bright colors. Address: 1310 Broadcloth St. Unit 101, Fort Mill, SC 29715.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to establish the Lisa Emerson Memorial Scholarship Endowment in Microbiology at the University of Florida, in support of graduate students pursuing a career in public health. The secured link for contributions is: https://ufgive.to/LisaEmerson. Checks can also be mailed to UF/IFAS Advancement, Attn: Microbiology, PO Box 110170, Gainesville, FL, 32611
Condolences may be sent to the Emerson family at www.bennettfuneralservice.com
The Emerson family is in the care of Bennett Funeral Service of Newton, 828-465-2111