Our darling mother, Lisa Joan Vena, age 67, passed away tragically on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Quantico, Virginia to Edward Francis McGrath II and Eugenia (Manthey) McGrath.
Lisa grew up on Long Island, New York and spent her remaining years in North Carolina. Our momma was one of the kindest souls there was. She opened up her heart and home to anyone who needed her. Lisa loved the holidays and decorated the house for each one, no matter how big or small. Most days you could find her puttering around the house, watching tv shows with our dad, and snacking on the “occasional sweet.” She was a dedicated hard worker and enjoyed her many years working for Applebee’s and Crossmark. Above all, Lisa dedicated her life to being a beloved wife and mother, but her greatest joy was spoiling her grandchildren. We will always remember our mom’s generous spirit, unconditional love and support, and beautiful soul.
Lisa was preceded in death by her father, Edward Francis McGrath II.
Lisa is survived by her mother, Eugenia (Manthey) McGrath; her husband, Daniel Vena; her four children, Erin, Daniel, Katherine and Jacqueline, their spouses and significant others, Corey Briscoe, Cecily Marino, and Kavon Russell; four grandchildren, Lana, Lukas, Elliana and Elena; and all of her fur babies, Brody, Alice, Molly, Leroy, Rain and Mookie. Lisa has three remaining siblings, her brothers, Edward and Colin and her best friend and sister Erin. Lisa was a cherished sister-in-law and aunt to all of her nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a host of extended family and friends who will miss her dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 2:00 pm at her home, 75 Shore Pine Drive, Youngsville, NC 27596. All are welcome and the family would love to honor and celebrate with all of the people who made our momma’s life so special.
Funeral Arrangements are entrusted to First Cremation Society of Louisburg.
Memories in photographs
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Condolences & memories
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A Memorial Tree was planted for Lisa Joan Vena
May 15, 2026
Planted 1 memorial tree
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ First Cremation Society
Gloria Scannapieco
May 15, 2026
Growing up in the Scannapieco (Vena) family meant very close bonds and constant visits; Sunday dinners. I was so very close to Danny, and when he met Lisa, I loved her right away. She asked me to be in the wedding, I think I was 16 years old. She made me feel so welcome with her friends, and being involved in preparations in Long Island. Thank you for that Lisa, and for taking such good care of my cousin. All of my love, Gloria
Jamie Preddy
May 15, 2026
The Vena family came into my life when I started working at Pat Murnane’s. Kate and Erin quickly became such close friends of mine, and before long I found myself spending time with the whole family. From the very first moment I met Lisa, she was a ray of sunshine — so kind, welcoming, and full of warmth.
Lisa was deeply passionate, especially when it came to the people she loved. I will always cherish the late nights spent sitting around talking and laughing together. She had a way of telling stories with so much detail and heart, and somehow every conversation ended in laughter. She made everyone around her feel included, cared for, and loved.
Lisa always treated me like one of her own, and that is something I will never forget. Seeing the excitement on her face when she became a grandmother was so special. The love she had for her family — her loving husband, children, siblings, and grandchildren — was truly beautiful to witness. She nurtured her family the same way she nurtured her garden: with endless sunshine, patience, and love every single day.
Her warmth, laughter, and love will stay in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know her.
Katherine Vena
May 15, 2026
The best mom there ever was. I am going to miss her with my whole heart and soul. I love you forever Mom. Rest In Peace. 🤍🕊️✨
Anita Mazzo
May 15, 2026
Lisa from our senior class trip with Donna to Rocking. Horse Ranch. We all shared a room and we were all a little tipsy trying to get beer in through the window that the Dean admitted he knew about it but we weren't that crazy.. For three days we didn't change clothes and Donna's underwear draw got thrown out the window hanging in the trees. There was much more memories but we had a blast. And I will never forget it and most of all you.
Donna
May 15, 2026
Shared photographs
Dearest Lisa,
From pee wee football to us being in one another's weddings, to you & Dan baptizing my daughter, Tiana 45 years ago, the memories are constant. Memories of the crazy antics we did will ALWAYS be a bright spot in my life. I'm saddened & shocked to learn of your passing. Til we meet again.
Shared by Donna
Erin Briscoe
May 15, 2026
Oh man where do I start.. my mom was so silly, kind, direct, strong, smart, loving and overall just amazing! I have so many stories and memories. One of my greatest memories is when I gave birth to my son Lukas. She was so excited! When she found out he was over 11 pounds she knew none of the newborn clothes would fit. She had to run out and buy all new clothes for him around Christmas, wash them and put them all away for me! Bringing him home was the greatest day! Her and my grandma and my sisters, brother and dad couldn’t stop staring at him! He loves his grandma so very much. I wish I could go back and relive that day. I miss you terribly momma! I love you always! Our angel forever!
Karen Sarno
May 15, 2026
Shared photographs
God Ive known Lisa Vena for over 20yrs. I actually met her first before I met Erin. We would walk up to applebee's in east Islip as young teenagers when we didnt drive yet. This was back when you could still smoke indoors. We were just a bunch of obnoxious kids sharing chicken fingers in the smoking section and she would serve us and treat us so kindly. Some of the other servers were run in the other direction when they saw us coming but Lisa loved us. Never annoyed. I think she got a kick out of us. Then when I met Erin we were basically inseparable. I started sleeping over practically every weekend and it just became my second home. She always treated me like her 4th daughter. She was one of the most hard working people I have ever met. Always making sure her family had what they needed. It continued into Lindenhurst and when me and Dan got married. The Venas were there to watch us walk down the aisle. Then down to NC when we would make trips once a year to visit We've even shared holidays together. Always making sure we felt welcome and apart of the family and like no time had passed like you do with family. Lisa loved a party and a get together. She had a way of making you feel safe and loved every time. Then when we had children the boys became her extended grandchildren. Spoiling them just the same. Im dreading not getting that welcome home hug she always gave me when I got there. It will never be the same but her light and love and comfort she so naturally gave will live on in her children and grandchildren. We are all better people because we knew her. Ill forever love and miss you Ma.
Shared by Karen Sarno
Cait McGrath
May 15, 2026
Lit a candle
When I think of my aunt Lisa I am filled with memories of joy, love, and laughter. Some of the hardest times I’ve laughed were because of her! It hurts my heart so much that she is gone. I recently found an old GPS in my car and her house is still listed as “PARTY TIME!”. I’ll always cherish the memories I have with her.
When I think of my aunt Lisa I am filled with memories of joy, love, and laughter. Some of the hardest times I’ve laughed were because of her! It hurts my heart so much that she is gone. I recently found an old GPS in my car and her house is still listed as “PARTY TIME!”. I’ll always cherish the memories I have with her. · Shared by Cait McGrath
Katherine
May 16, 2026
Planted 1 memorial tree
I hope your memory lives on forever, and when I turn my face to the sun and feels the trees blowing in the wind I will know you are with me.
Kelly dela
May 18, 2026
Just thinking of her makes my heart hurt. If you knew Lisa you knew that the most important thing in life was her family. I pray for them at this time because she was their rock. She always had a way of making things better for everyone around her. Just one of her great qualities. Applebees gave us a friendship that will always be imbedded in my soul. I love her and my memories will always make me laugh. Till we meet again my lil fearless warrior🙏🏻✌🏻
Jean Baird
May 21, 2026
Shared photographs
We would like to send our deepest condolences to Lisa’s family,all of whom were a huge part of my childhood & beyond.So many great memories,your Mom & Dad moving in with you,Eddie,Colin & Erin, across the street from us,in the house that years later I met my husband,raised our children in & now have my Grandchildren living next door.Santapogue Drive was such an amazing place to grow up.I remember sleeping at cousin Mary Jeans & going to our first concert,Stevie Wonder,hanging out with cousin Kevin over the summers,eating your Grandmas homeade potatoe pancakes with the grinder attached to the kitchen table,wrestling with Eddie,getting high & I passed out the last day of high school,being chaperones for Erins group at Rocking Horse Ranch,going with you & Dan to Sugar Loaf every year,me always the third wheel,slipping away in yellowbird to The Boardy Barn when we were at the Dune rd cottage every weekend,being in each others weddings
,4th of July at Maria & Lous,omg all those woderful memories!The Lime in The Coconut will always be our freak out song,I texted you not long ago when it came on in my house ,laughing about it!I will always keep you close in my heart!Send your special signs to your loved ones ,give them strength for they need to know that you see & hear them!Rest in peace my friend,love always Jean Ann
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Marianne McCarthy
August 20, 2026
Planted 3 memorial trees
I can still picture Lisa as a beautiful little girl. She was darling and much loved. May her memory be a blessing to all of you.
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