Lisa Ranae Olsen, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on February 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 21, 1965, in Caldwell, Idaho, to Ray and Vanae Knight.

Lisa spent her childhood in Homedale, Idaho, and Connell, Washington, where she attended Connell High School, graduating in 1983. She went on to earn a degree in Spanish and History from Ricks College and Brigham Young University. Her love for education and leadership led her to pursue a Master's Degree in Instructional Leadership and Curriculum. She also had the life-changing opportunity to study in Jerusalem for six months.

Lisa served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Chihuahua, Mexico, from 1987 to 1988. After graduating from college, she moved to Fresno, California, to begin her teaching career. It was during this time that she met Kent Olsen, who became her perfect partner and eternal companion. They were married and sealed for eternity in the Seattle Washington Temple on June 19, 1992.

Together, Lisa and Kent built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. They were blessed with three children: Devon Olsen (Abby) of Provo, UT.; Alexandra "Lexi" Olsen of Orem, UT.; and Jarin Olsen of Connell, WA. Lisa was a dedicated and loving mother who never missed an opportunity to support her children in their pursuits.

Lisa had a profound impact on countless students and staff during her years as a Spanish teacher at Connell High School. Her classroom was a place of warmth, excitement, and encouragement. She had a unique ability to inspire students, making learning both engaging and meaningful. Whether serving as a class advisor, Spanish Club advisor, or after-school tutor, Lisa poured her heart into her students. During Spirit Week and Homecoming, she spent countless hours helping students with decorations and planning.

Beyond the classroom, Lisa's faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of her life. She served in many capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Young Women's President, Relief Society President, and in various callings where she worked with youth and the Spanish-speaking community. She had a gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued.

Lisa will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her love of storytelling, and her ability to make everyone around her feel important. She was kind, full of life, and deeply devoted to those she loved.

Lisa's life of love, service, and faith will live on in all who knew her. She was a light in the lives of many, and while she will be deeply missed, her influence will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her parents, Ray and Vanae Knight of Pasco, WA; her siblings: Jeri Ann Schull (Karl) of Pasco, WA; Scott Knight (Kelly) of Pasco, WA; Kyle Knight (Kelly) of Franklin, IN; Jana Black (Tom) of Pasco, WA; Mark Knight (Wendy) of Kennewick, WA; Rebecca Eskildsen (Chris) of Connell, WA; Marci Cox (David) of Connell, WA; Laron Knight (Sonja) of Kennewick, WA: Nichole Harris (Sam) of Connell, WA; Mikaela Johnson (John) of Connell, WA; and Kelli (Scott) Stapleton of Houston, TX.

Services

A viewing will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 350 East Fulton Ave., Connell, WA.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m.

Interment will follow at Mt. View Cemetery, Connell, WA.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mueller's Greenlee Mortuary, 1608 W. Court St., Pasco, WA.