Lisa Roy

Lisa Roy, 59, of Robinson, IL, passed away on December 4, 2024. Born on August 20, 1965, in Fort Campbell, KY, Lisa’s life was a series of extraordinary chapters, each one flavored with her signature blend of warmth, grit, and love. Her early years were spent in sunny Valencia, CA, where she made Six Flags Magic Mountain her second home. Armed with a season pass and boundless enthusiasm, Lisa zipped through roller coasters nearly every weekend, claiming the thrill of those rides as her first true love. In grade school, her family moved to Palestine, IL, where she would later attend Palestine High School and plant the roots of her incredible story.

At 18, Lisa met Robert Cook “RC” Roy, Sr., and their shared adventures took them from Louisiana’s refineries to the rugged landscapes of Idaho before eventually returning to Illinois. Here, she found her tribe in her best friend, Kathy Henderson, whose mother, Flo, introduced Lisa to what would become her calling. At Flo’s, she quickly gained a reputation as a brilliant cook. Over the years, Lisa made kitchens her stage, cooking at The Hollywood, Huck’s, the Elks Lodge (alongside her great friend Brian Watts), and a number of other local spots. Her plates were the stuff of local legend, and lunchtime crowds flocked wherever she worked, knowing they’d get a taste of the best fare in the county. Lisa had one rule in the kitchen: good food or nothing at all. Cooking wasn’t always her passion, but it was her gift—a gift she poured into every plate she made. For her family, she’d set aside the weariness of the kitchen, finding joy in their smiles and satisfaction. Her signature noodles and blackberry cobbler were a testament to her belief that the best moments in life often come from the effort we give for those we love.

After long shifts, Lisa had a way of unwinding that was as unique as she was. She’d settle in, turn on Frasier , roll one up, and take a moment to savor life’s...lighter side. Her weekends, though, were reserved for her grandkids, who were the spark in her eyes and the joy that kept her going. Lisa was a master of contrasts: shy but fiercely loyal, quiet yet unafraid to call things as she saw them. She believed in minding your own business and doing your best—and she wasn’t shy about reminding others of these values. But beneath her no-nonsense demeanor was a heart as big as the meals she used to serve. Whether offering advice, a hug, or a plate of food, Lisa cared deeply and loved with her whole being. Like her blackberry cobbler, her life was sweet, a bit tart, and absolutely unforgettable! Her love will continue to nourish her friends and family, leaving them with hearts full of gratitude and memories to savor.

She is survived by her children, Cloudy Roy, Tyson Roy, Shelly Roy, Bobby Roy, Charlie Roy, and James Roy. In addition to her kids, there were others that she helped raise, including Jeannie Maxwell, Stephenie Maxwell, and PD Maxwell. She is also survived by many beloved grandchildren, including Kyndal Roy, Maddix Roy, Briseis “B” Roy, by her father, Lawrence Davis, as well as a host of other treasured family members. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Cook “RC” Roy, Sr., by her grandmother, Betty Elliott, and by her mother, Sharron Lasam.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10th, at the Robinson New Cemetery, with Pastor Paul Gray officiating. These arrangements are being handled by Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Following the graveside, Lisa’s family is inviting friends to join them for a celebration of her life at the Robinson American Legion from 2:00-7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to her memorial fund. Donations can be made by check payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes," or by following this link .