Lisa Merritt

Lisa Merritt was born a proud coalminer’s daughter in Grundy, Virginia, a beginning she carried with humor and grit her entire life. She grew up in Long Bottom alongside her sister Lyn and brother Dave, in a home full of stories, big Christmases, and a heavy dose of sarcasm.

At seventeen, Lisa left her small town for Arizona State, later continuing her studies at the University of Alabama and East Tennessee State before completing her degree in Physical Therapy at Georgia State. She built a respected career, eventually returning home to open her own practice in which she ran for over 20 years.

Together with her high school sweetheart, Lisa built a life in Abingdon, Virginia where she raised her daughters, Madelyn and Sophie, in a home filled with love, laughter, and Lisa’s legendary cooking. A Pillsbury Bake-Off finalist, no one wanted to miss a meal at her table, and she never passed up an opportunity to bake for school functions or an impromptu dinner party. Beyond showing her love through food, Lisa was a devoted and steadfast mother, always encouraging her girls to be confident, expressive, and wholly themselves.

Later in life, Lisa found deep companionship with Mike McCune, her loving partner of over a decade. She eventually settled in Asheville, North Carolina, where she ran the beloved Lion & the Rose Bed and Breakfast, creating a space as warm and welcoming as she was.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and later facing complications from spinal surgeries that left her paralyzed, Lisa endured years of profound physical challenges. Yet she remained defined not by limitation, but by love. She continued to entertain, to give thoughtful gifts, to savor music, martinis, chocolate, and good conversation. She adored her pets, delighted in her daughters’ marriages, and remained fiercely devoted to her family.

Lisa believed in honesty, hard work, loyalty, and compassion. She loved deeply and was deeply loved in return.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willa Gray and Jack Merritt. She is survived by her daughters, Madelyn and husband Matt, and Sophie and husband Luke; her sister Lyn and husband George; her brother Dave and partner Jama; her beloved partner Mike; treasured nieces and nephews, and countless dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported Lisa, especially her devoted caregivers, Carolyn and Julia.

A celebration of life will be held in March for family and close friends. Please contact the family for details.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local hospice organization or animal shelter in her honor.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is assisting the family.