Hong Ying Lisa Ciacci was a force of nature; fierce, and full of love. She lived with a generous heart, an adventurous soul, and a knack for turning every day into a story worth telling. Her greatest pride and deepest love was her family. Lisa is survived by her beloved husband of 43 years, Joseph, and her two children, Andrew and Elise, who know that she was the best soulmate and mom that anyone could ask for. She was their fiercest advocate, the voice in the crowd they could always hear, and their most trusted advisor (even when they didn’t ask for it). Lisa was the Captain of the family ship.
Those who knew her will remember a woman who was truly full of life; radiant, adventurous, and endlessly giving. She had a laugh that could fill a room, wisdom that often came with a side of sass, and a generosity that knew no limits. An avid traveler and adventurer, always eager to explore new places and embrace different cultures. Whether hiking up mountains, going on safaris, paragliding through the Swiss Alps, or trying to talk to the penguins in Antarctica, she approached the world with curiosity and made friends with everyone around her. No one was ever a stranger for long. Anyone who knew her wouldn’t have been surprised if her fearlessness and curiosity led to a lion or hippo chasing her through the African safari (because yes, she would try to pet and befriend them).
She was an extraordinary cook, not just because her food was amazing (it was), but because her meals were love on a plate. She brought people together around her table, usually over a feast, a story, and maybe a little unsolicited life advice.
At home in Jonesborough, Lisa found community and deep friendship through the Jonesborough Senior Center. She was its unofficial hype woman, cheering on her hiking buddies, painting with style, kickboxing with gusto, and forming lifelong bonds with the people she met there. She treasured that community and gave so much of herself in return.
Lisa’s love language was food, deep loyalty, and well-timed pearls of wisdom (some requested, many not). She was happiest when the people she loved were thriving, and she was never shy about nudging them (okay, pushing them) toward their potential.
Lisa’s family believes if there’s a couple of things she would have wanted everyone to take with them; it would be to love those around us with every ounce of love you have, and to live life as voraciously as she did… also, always look for a good bargain and don’t be afraid to haggle.
In lieu of flower donation may be made to the Jonesborough Senior Center, 307 E Main Street Jonesborough, TN 37659.
The family will receive family and friends Monday October 13, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Jonesborough Funeral Home 1776 hwy 11-E Jonesborough, TN 37659.