WILMINGTON — Lisa Beth Kazantzis, a beacon of love, generosity, and joy, passed away on July 14, 2024. Born on August 4, 1959, she lived a life full of cherished moments and meaningful connections.
Lisa was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Darleen Sessions, and her father, James Charles Huntington. She was the beloved middle child of five girls in her family. Her four sisters, Darla Jamie Kunsman, Brenda Sue Keen, Linda Lee Arrow, and Laura Ruth Howard, survive her and hold dear the memories they shared.
Lisa was married to her high school sweetheart, Doug (William Douglas), for 45 beautiful years, having been together for a total of 50. Their love story was one for the ages, marked by shared dreams, mutual respect, and countless adventures.
She was the devoted mother of two children, Leah Nichole Roberts and Ryan Nicholas Kazantzis, who carry forward her legacy of kindness and compassion. Lisa cherished her family above all else, creating meaningful traditions for her children that became part of their deeply loved childhoods, including the nightly practice of eating home-cooked dinners together around the table.
Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren, Connley Ray Kazantzis, Ilana Mae Kazantzis, and Athena Selene Roberts. Lisa was a huge fan of celebrating, loving on, and bragging about her grandchildren, delighting in every moment she spent with them.
Lisa was fiercely passionate about animal rescue and was a proud pet parent to Bodee (dog) and Izzy (cat), who survive her. She also lovingly remembered Forrest (cat), Captain Nemo (dog), and Annie Lake (dog), who passed over the rainbow bridge several years before her.
One of Lisa’s favorite pastimes was going boating with Doug, where they would often stop to get lunch at one of her favorite restaurants, Provision Company in Holden Beach, NC. She was always generous with her time and frequently volunteered with the American Legion and her church, All Saints Anglican Parish, among other places.
An amazing cook, Lisa’s spanakopita, a Greek spinach pie, was her most requested dish, earning her a special place in the hearts and stomachs of those who knew her. She worked alongside Doug as a small business owner, doing picture framing for 27 years at the Townhouse Art and Frame Center in Wilmington, NC, before they retired in 2018.
Lisa’s faith in Jesus was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring those around her. She always looked at the world through big blue eyes of wonder and astonishment and could find joy in the smallest of things. She never asked for anything or expected anything from anyone; she just gave.
Lisa never knew a stranger. She was extroverted and social, making friends easily and always chatting with those around her. She had a way of drawing people together, whether around a dinner table, in the neighborhood, or even in the aisle of a grocery store. She made everyone feel welcome and cared for, everywhere she went.
Lisa Beth Kazantzis leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.
May she rest in eternal peace.
