Elizabeth "Lisa" Anne Mothersead (Gates), 67, died peacefully on June 2, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. She has left a legacy of love, dedication, and service to her family and community.

Born on April 21, 1958, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Lisa was the beloved daughter of Paul and Mary Gates. She spent her life devoted to education, family, and faith, touching countless lives through her gentle spirit and unwavering commitment to those she loved.

Lisa married Philip Mothersead on August 9, 1980, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Maryville, Missouri, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span over four decades. Together with their two daughters Laura and Kerri, they built a loving home centered on family values and mutual devotion.

A passionate educator, Lisa graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a bachelor's degree in education and later earned her Master's in Reading. She dedicated her career to nurturing young minds, teaching elementary school in several rural schools throughout northwest Missouri before continuing her teaching career in Springfield. Her love for learning and children was evident in every classroom she entered.

When her daughters were young, Lisa chose to step back from teaching to focus on raising her family. She embraced this role wholeheartedly, serving actively on the local PTA and creating a warm, beautifully decorated home where her family could flourish. Her attention to detail and love of homemaking made their house a sanctuary.

Lisa was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church in Springfield for many years, where she found community and purpose. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both joyful celebrations and life's challenges. Lisa's greatest joy came from her role as mother and grandmother. She is survived by her loving husband, Philip Mothersead, of Springfield, Missouri, two daughters: Laura Ewing (spouse Mike) of St. Louis, Missouri, and Kerri Cauldwell (spouse Brandon)of Kennesaw, Georgia. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Will and Ellie Ewing.  In addition, she is survived by her mother, Mary Gates of Taos, New Mexico and three brothers: Steve Gates (spouse Perihan), Chris Gates of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Phil Gates of Butte, Montana.

Lisa was preceded in death by her father, Paul Gates, who instilled in her the values of hard work and compassion that she carried throughout her life.

Lisa will be remembered for her gentle kindness, dedication to family, passion for education, and ability to create beauty and warmth wherever she went. Her love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who know her.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to St. John's Episcopal Church, Springfield, MO.