Lisa Tafua

Lisa Eleanor Ripley Tafua, 49, of Orange, Ca, passed away on September 1st, 2024.

Lisa was born January 20th, 1975 in Long Beach, Ca to Peggy and Edward Ripley.

Lisa is survived by her loving husband Steve of 22 years, son Christian Sefo Tafua 18, and daughter Kylie Malae Tafua 16, her parents Peggy (Baxter) Ripley and Edward Ripley, brother, Eric Po’oai Ripley and nephew Jackson Ripley. Lisa is also survived by MANY aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Lisa was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Fa’amamata and Afa Leoso Ripley, maternal grandparents Kathryn and Harry Baxter, Aunt Malae Ripley, Uncles Fepulea’i Tuilaepa Afa Jr. and Matagitu Po’oainafaiaoe Ripley and Uncles Harry and Michael Baxter.

Lisa grew up in Irvine, CA and graduated from Woodbridge High School. She received her Associate Arts degree from Orange Coast College (OCC). She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development from California State University Fullerton.

She met her husband Steve at OCC. They settled in Orange, Ca to raise their family.

Lisa was extremely active in volunteering. In 2005 she joined the Red Cross in Louisiana to aid victims of hurricane Katrina. In her community, Lisa served as Champions Division Coordinator, League Secretary, and League Vice President for Olive Pony Baseball. She also volunteered much of her time to support El Modena High School Athletics.

She worked for Orange County Probation for 24 years, most recently as a Supervising Deputy Probation Officer. In 2018, Orange County Probation joined the Sheriffs’ Union. Lisa was an integral part of a team of officers that made that transition a success.

Among the things Lisa loved was watching her children play sports, spending time with her many friends, annual summer vacations at the river, and of course, her infamous girls’ trips. She always enjoyed opening her home for holidays, hosting the softball, baseball, and football team dinners and other functions. Lisa loved her dogs, Kylo and Tillie. Most of all Lisa loved being surrounded by family.

Sadly in 2022 Lisa was diagnosed with ALK+ lung cancer. She lived the last two and a half years to the fullest, making lasting memories for those who knew and loved her. Losing Lisa is heartbreaking for not only her family but also the entire Orange community. We will stay #TAFUASTRONG

It was Lisa’s wish that in lieu of flowers donations be made to:

ALK+ Lung Cancer efforts:

https://secure.qgiv.com/event/alkpositiveinc/account/1829389/