Stories about Lisa Carlson

Dear Carlson Family; Please accept our sincere condolences on behalf of all of us at Michelsohn Creative Communications (Jiffy Lube's ad agency) in New Mexico. It seems like just last week we spend a few days together at a seminar in Atlanta and she was so vibrant and enthusiastic. It's funny, Lisa and I started out on a rocky slope- she was the logo and brand integrity defender-of-the-crown enforcement person and I the maverick ad guy bucking all the rules. After a few business tussles, I realized that Lisa was a person to be taken seriously and I acquiesced to follow her rules. She became one of our best supporters and, I like to think, a friend and contemporary. It is with great sadness that we bid her goodbye- we enjoyed her personality and working with her very much! She was a real pro! Dave Michelsohn Michelsohn Creative Communications Albuquerque, NM

- Dave Michelsohn

I was so sad to hear about Lisa. Although I worked with her at Shell for a short while, we swapped stories about kids. I remember talking about my son (at the time he was 5 years old) always being a lap child no matter how big he gets---we both laughed and she told me how much she enjoyed her son and "the smell of his hair" and that no matter how big he is or his feet are, he will always be a lap child..... prayers to Lisa's family with sincere sympathy-----Ronnie Kurtin

- Ronnie Kurtin

Lisa was in town for a meeting and she left her powercord or laptop battery at our offices. I met her and her husband, who had joined her in Salt Lake City, at The Gateway (an outdoor mall in the heart of the city). I met her on the corner of the mall, and she took the cord and gave me the biggest hug. It was totally unexpected, but really sweet and sincere. She had a great fur coat or collar on that made her look like she fit right into the crowd on that winter afternoon.

- Allison Beall

Greetings Carlson Family, My name is Albert Youssef and I am a colleague of Lisa's from Toronto, Canada. I will always remember Lisa for her friendliness and ability to make me feel welcome whenever I had the pleasure of seeing her. The one story about Lisa I'd like to share with you was a day where I was presenting an important strategy to the leadership team of which Lisa was a part of. I was nervous and anxious as heck but as soon as Lisa entered the room, she sat me down beside her to "catch up" on things and to provide words of encouragement. Even though I only have opportunity 3 or 4 times a year to talk with her, that day we just picked up were we left off - she calmned my nerves. Thanks Lisa and God Bless. Al

- Albert Youssef

I knew Lisa said she grew up in Cut' n" Shoot. I had occasion to drive through there without blinking and I thought of Lisa. When I saw her in the office I asked her "what she did as a teenager other than hang out at the Country store drinking RC Cola and eating Moon Pies? She gave me that knowing look with a smile and said "You would be surprised!"

- Dave Gillespie

I met Lisa Purdom at A&M when she was dating Noble Brundrett who is my husband, Bubba, good friend. When we went out together we had lots of fun and I too remember her ways of teasing and being a prankster. She was fun to be around as we had fun playing pranks on our boyfriends, like when they were at the back of the truck peeing on the side of the road, and Lisa said "pull forward" and we would giggle as the guys were left exposed! ha Also her dedication to her first born Trei, and her desire for natural childbirth. Lost touch with Lisa after her divorce from Noble, and sorry I didnt get to meet her other children. I know she was probably a good mother and dedicated worker..

- Mary Wilson

Lisa and I both shared a love of laughter and enjoyed orchestrating pranks at work. One of my favorites was this: Laura had a life-size cardboard cut-out of "Mini Me" from Austin Powers and some kidnapped him. (I will never tell who) A ransom note was issued, complete with magazine letters and all. One even showed Mini-Me's head next to garden shears and a car tire...if Laura didn't pay the ransom. This kept us all giggling and waiting for the next ransom note and our response to the kidnapper. We were a bustling and busy department--and these moments of pure laughter will never be forgotten. __________________________________ Another favorite memory of mine is a trip Lisa and I took to Boston. She and I had our hair cut and colored at a posh salon on Newberry Street, enjoyed lunch together, had books signed by Goldie Hawn and spent probably two hours in a boutique where she tried on outfit after outfit. They all looked so cute on her! I just enjoyed being with her, feeling like a sister. We even jokingly named ourselves "Trixie" (Lisa) and "Ginger" (me). __________________________________ I was trying to think of a unique gift to get Miles, my then-four-year-old son...and Lisa said, "Oh my God, you have to get Walter the Farting Dog! It's a hilarious book that Christian and his friends STILL look at and laugh." Christian was in middle school then. Sure enough, I bought ALL of the books and even a stuffed little Walter the Dog, in which you squeeze his sides and he farts. (Lisa and I were pretty silly and farts were always a funny topic. She told me about the time she had a remote fart machine and played pranks on someone and we'd always vowed to get one for our department, too.) ____________________________________ On a serious note, Lisa was a dear friend and mentor to me not only while I was at Shell but when I left to accept a position at Wells Fargo. She was a magnanimous, energetic, playful, larger-than-life woman and I will always treasure over time together. She also cared very deeply about her family, her children and grandchildren. I take solice that her father welcomed her into heaven.

- Helen Bow

Lisa always had a smile on her face and encouraging words. She gave of herself by reaching out to help others. She volunteered a great deal of her personal time and energy to the UK Women's Network. She was a true leader, mentor and inspiration for so many women. She didn't have to do this work, she chose to and she made a lasting difference. Also, before moving to London, Lisa gave me the inside scoop on househunting, what to bring, banking problems, pitfalls to avoid, etc. All the stuff you only get from another expat who has been through it all. It sure made a difference in our transition. That was just Lisa. She'd see someone in need and offer to help.

- Ann Musser

My fondest memory of Lisa is not the most riveting story, but it still makes me smile. She and I both attended two Jiffy Lube conventions every year. I would make it a point to seek Lisa out two or three times at each convention, and ask her “did anyone tell you that you looked fabulous today?” I’d usually catch her between conversations at a cocktail reception, or between meetings, or maybe running to the bathroom before her marketing presentation. I’ll always remember the way her face would light up every time, and her genuine smile. For just a moment, I took both of us away from our responsibilities, then it was back to work for both of us. I didn’t get to spend near enough time with Lisa, but she was my friend, and I miss her. I am reminded of her every time I put on my Jiffy Lube bicycle jersey, which she paid for, and I will remember her long after the jersey is worn out.

- Darwin Moore

One of my favorite memories of Lisa was from the convention in Dallas a few years ago. We rented a boat and went waterskiing on lake Grapevine on our free afternoon. Skiing is one of the passions we both share and it was something fun and different to do at a convention. That outing was when I really got to know Lisa and enjoy her company. A few years later, when we were at the JLAF convention in the Bahamas, we had another water related adventure. It was late night, after the party and we decided to go swimming. We started out wading in the ocean in the pitch black, then decided the pool would be a smarter option so we went up there. The pool was closed, but we hung out in the water and wandered our way through the pool system as we talked, avoiding the security guards along the way. It was a great evening. Between swimming and skiing, Lisa and I shared some really fun times.

- Karn Jilek

Lisa and I worked together in the early days of SSI. She was full of enthusiasm and energy and had a huge task in front of her. She had so much on her platter that she came to work one day, thrilled about outsourcing her Christmas decorating. Then a few days later she came in saying that her daughter had cried because they had always decorated the Christmas tree together. It probably goes without saying that Lisa bought another tree! I thought the whole situation was so reflective of Lisa, an organized, get-it-done businesswoman and at the same time, a loving mother.

- Liz Mason

Lisa was my boss at Jiffy Lube--Shell Lubricants. She asked the entire Marketing group to attend a special off-site meeting at the Woodlands conference center. We had an all-day meeting with various facilitated activities planned. During the meeting, I had a health issue and had to excuse myself to the restroom. Lisa came in and saw that I wasn't feeling well. She stayed with me while I called my doctor and comforted me while I waited. I knew that she had obligations as the leader of the meeting and had other things she needed to do. But, she wanted to take care of me and ensure I'd be ok. Lisa was very a compassionate woman and I am glad I knew her. I feel for her family, who must miss her terribly.

- Pegi Newhouse

In the early 90’s the Reeds and the Carlsons coordinated a trip to Santa Fe. Carl had to study for his masters class at SMU and Terry wasn’t into skiing so Lisa and I hit the slopes. We had an absolute blast playing like we were married to each other in front of the people we met that day. We spun some pretty hair raising stories about our married life together. She was an excellent ad libber. (I will bring a photo from that day on Saturday)

- Jack Reed

Jan 20, 2009 Dear Trei, Caitlin, Christian, Let me first say how sorry we are to hear of your mother’s passing. Lisa was so full of life, so much fun to be around, and I know how much she loved each of you. As you may recall I went to school with your father Carl at SMU in the early 1990’s. This is when I got to know your mom also. She was always so kind to me and spoke to me about marketing from time to time since she was obviously very gifted in this area and I was just learning the ropes. She was also gracious with her time, I loved her laugh. I will never ever forget that warm laugh she had. I’m sure you can hear it too as you read this. I wanted to share a little story with you about your Mom that I think you’ll find familiar. Shortly after graduating from SMU in 1994, Sharon and I moved to Louisville, KY, the home of the KY Derby – Churchill Downs. A couple of years later, I invited your mom and dad to come join us at the KY Derby for the most exciting 2 minutes in sports. As is the 100+ year tradition, all the women who attend wear hats, the more flamboyant the better. Well, my wife Sharon never bought a hat for the Derby in all the past years we lived in Louisville so when your mom arrived, hats were a must! Carl, Lisa, Sharon, and I all went out together with Lisa leading the charge to find just the right hat. They tried on so many hats my mind gets fatigued just thinking about it. Of course Carl and I were in the background and for this task were completely useless. I just remember how much fun my wife Sharon had in doing this with Lisa, something Sharon would have never done for herself. They had a blast and Lisa made it fun. When all the selections were made and Lisa’s warm laugh wound down to a low roar, your Mom from the goodness of her heart and showing her generosity insisted that she pay for Sharon’s hat for the KY Derby. She would not take no for an answer! Maybe Lisa felt that since she put all 4 of us through this incredible hat discovery project on the morning of the Derby that the least she could do was give a gift at the end of it all. But after thinking about it some more, I think it was just that your mom was just being herself. She loved life and involved everyone around her in all the fun and then like to do something a little extra for someone else like Sharon in giving her a gift that to this day we always remembered. I will never forget your Mom, I can hear that laugh as I’m typing, can you hear it now after having read this? I bet so … Jim & Sharon Clishem

- Jim Clishem

A wonderful, strong fasmily has lost a beauftiful mother. We are so sorry to hear of her loss and glad to have known her even for a very short while.

- Joe Broccoli

Lisa loved new toys! She always had lots of stuff in her office ~ momentos from her last place traveled, gifts from vendors and franchiees and favorite trinkets from one of her many experieces or previous encounters. I remember how excited she was when she got her new silver Lexus coupe - a favorite new toy. This car had Lisa written all over it.....sleek and fast yet very sophisticated on the outside! One evening following a Leadership Team meeting Lisa invited me to drive it. As we both lived in the Woodlands and I'd been really wanting to get behind the wheel of this car, I immediately jumped at the oppotunity. As I got onto the Hardy Toll Way she started to tell me about all the "gadgets" on the car and was particularly impressed with the hands free phone ~ Lisa was always on the phone! When she finished the tour she looked over at me and said, "OK, let's see what this baby can do ~ punch it"! I looked at her and reassured myself she wasn't kidding and immediately began to press down on the accelerator. As we increased our speed Lisa let out a holler of excitement as we moved effortlessly through the traffic. We made it to the Woodlands in what seemed like a few minutes and as I pulled into my driveway I thanked Lisa for the opportunity to play with her new toy. "Anytime" she said as she sped away happily with the top down. Lisa loved her toys!

- Carl Reed

Ok, this story about Lisa takes place shortly after she moved into her new home in the Woodlands. She asked me to join her at an antique furniture auction in Old Town Conroe, and since I drove a truck I could help her transport whatever she bid on and won. Well, once we arrived and the auction started it didn't take long for me to figure out that Lisa Carlson either really liked the antiques there or she really hated loosing a bid. After watching her win a table, a nice little shelf unit, a very nice wooden bench and another smaller table, I was starting to wonder if I even had room in my truck for what she had already won.....Just about that time a really nice antique dresser was brought out....I could see her start to fidget in her seat as her eyes wear lighting up....The first bid came in...Lisa Carlson countered...another bid came in and Lisa Carlson countered, but once again the bid was raised, Lisa was just about to raise her card again only this time I put my hand over her hand that was holding the card and held it down...( Now any of ya'll that know Lisa will know this look I'm about to describe )...She look right into my eyes, slowly tilted her head to the side as if trying to figure me out and said "Brown, are you trying to slow me down", just before breaking into her thunderous laugh! And this is more an observation and less a story. Did any of you ever seen her get her game face on before a game of scrabble? Whew, Ray Lewis has nothing on Lisa. Lisa Carlson, Your missed terribly....Not a day goes by that you don't cross my mind, and I don't imagine that will ever change. God Bless you and your family. You'll always be loved Lisa,

- Rick Brown

LISA STORY From Beau Latham Some of the very best times with Lisa were when she would visit us in Amarillo. Her grandmother Ella and I looked forward to those special occasions. Lisa and family would come for Ella’s birthdays and sometimes just to visit her. On one trip, we went to Palo Duro Canyon State Park where Lisa really enjoyed the natural beauty and being outside on a nice day. Carl and Lisa would do something special with Ella like the time they prepared dinner for her in her apartment. Once we used the big party room and just visited for hours with Ella and all of the family in Amarillo. We were very close and had many great conversations and good times over the years. I will never forget the joy that Lisa brought to Ella and all of the family on those visits! Linda, Angel, Chris, Deborah, Gary, Jeremy and I enjoyed those family gatherings and we will miss Lisa very much.

- Beau Latham

Lisa always surprised her Marketing team with the things that she had done in her earlier life. I remember her beginning a meeting by asking us to write down somehting that we had done that would surprise the rest of the group. We all thought we had submitted really surprising tales about ourselves. But we were truly amazed and surprised to find out that Lisa had been a midwife and helped to deliver babies. She had a way of nonchalantly dropping comments that could make you gasp, giggle or guffaw. One of my favorite "Lisaism" was when she told me that I wasn't having a hot-flash - I was having a power-surge. We shared quite a few power-surges! I will never forget that.

- Leigh Anne Kelly

When your family moved into the Shearwater Place scene, our neighborhood was the “happening” place. Filled with children running the streets (Christian the boy and Hope the girl), to the parents socializing and enjoying each other's company - our street finally seemed complete when the Carlsons came to town. Your mom and I hit it off immediately. We wore the same perfume, loved the same movies and really enjoyed racing down Golden Shadow (yes, we knew it was wrong..but we still did it). I beat her once and only once...which was quite a feat due to the fact that she had the BMW and I had the clunky old Volvo. A sweet win indeed! After a couple of months of hanging out, Lisa and I decided we needed to have a neighborhood gathering. The two of us put our crazy heads together and came up with the idea of having a Sunday brunch. We made the invitations, the kids delivered them to every home on The Place and two weeks later your house was filled with almost every single person on the street. It was definitely a first and a huge success! Your mom and I decided that we needed name tags so the neighbors (and the two of us) could figure out who was who. Once again, the great minds came up with a plan to what we thought was an absolutely perfect solution to get to know one another. One by one as the neighbors walked in, your mom and I greeted them and asked for their name. Instead of writing their names we wrote, “Hi! My name is Mickey Barry” or “Hi! My name is Lisa Carlson.” Every single neighbor was called Mickey or Lisa for the entire afternoon. We were never quite sure anyone thought it was as funny as the two of us did. Trei, Danielle and family. I’ve only met you once, but Lisa talked about you all the time. She shared all of your successes with such love and pride. Enjoy your beautiful new family. Caitlin, your mom loved you like no other. I promise you that! We spent many days talking about our two “Caitlins” and how proud we were of both of you! Lisa and I knew we brought up two very strong-willed, independent, confident and beautiful young women. Remain the same, my love. Christian the boy. Lisa treasured you. There is something about your youngest child that holds a special place in their mother’s heart. If you need anything, sweetie, I’m just a phone call away. I will miss you more than you know. Take care. With love, Mickey

- Mickey Barry

Lisa - Lisa - Lisa. That one 'little girl' picture tells your story. You look so much like your dad. Those bright, alert eyes, maybe a little mischief mixed in. And from your mom, you had an appreciation of family and life. You had what it took to conquer life to the fullest and to share momenteous times with your friends and family. As secretary to your dad at Highlands Ins. Co. for 14 years I pretty much saw You, Rob and Miles grow up. I remember when you moved to Conroe, when you were going to college and studying marketing. Billie was the mother hen of the family keeping tabs on you all. Your dad was the maestro who kept it all going. I have always felt a closeness to the Purdom Family in all the years past and always will. I am sure your zest for life was in part from your grandmother, your dad and mom and just passed along the family lines. I know your children haved been instilled with those same strong qualities and know they will have strength and comfort because of having a mom like you.

- Wanda Moscarelli

When I was in high school, Lisa got me my first real job interview. I had a weird haircut then and a generally awkward demeanor. Lisa delighted in constantly teasing me about these very traits. I found out later that I was only hired after she had aggressively fought behind-the-scenes for my new employers to look past my strangeness. I kept that job until college. Lisa’s joy and wit were infectious, and throughout the years, her support and loyalty always made me feel like family. As young people, my close friends and I were provoked to be ourselves by Lisa’s subversive respect for us. She included us in the world, trusted us, and taunted us with a vigor that most adults only reserved for ignoring us. The way Lisa treated others showed us that everyone, even a bunch of freaky teenage weirdos, deserved to be taken seriously. My hair and my awkwardness are mostly gone now, but Lisa’s examples of embracing others and supporting them in their own choices, of relentlessly making and gracefully taking a joke, are with me every day.

- Patrick Williams

I met Lisa when she first started with Shell. I remember Jim Neikirk (our boss) introducing me to her as a new member of our leadership team in Business Services, and I was thrilled. Shell rarely hired (in 1997) “outsiders” into top positions, and you could tell immediately Lisa was going to be a breath of fresh air. And I was particularly grateful for another woman! She and I worked closely together on the Business Services leadership team and later in Shell People Services. I watched her evolve from an outsider to an undisputed contributor of value to Shell. . Lisa had so many sides to her. She was first and foremost, full of life. Period. There was never a dull moment around her, she was always energetic, funny, playful, irreverent, FUN. At the same time she was smart, hard working, pragmatic, a good networker , driven. My favorite memory of Lisa was a trip we made together to London when we were in Business Services. We had a global meeting to attend, and several of us decided to go a few days early and see the town. I have a picture of us freezing our butts off in the top of a double decker, and a picture of 6 of us squeezed into a red London phone booth (guess who’s idea?). And another one where we were at “high tea” at the Marriott County Hall, having just spent $40 apiece on tea and tiny cucumber sandwiches. We were trying to be so “in the culture”. One of our group, Calvin Lawson, a young rising leader, couldn’t take it and finally ordered a hamburger. Lisa and I wouldn’t let him forget his cultural lack of sensitivity and we teased him for many months. I have another picture where Lisa and I were touring around St. James and Buckingham Palaces. She asked me to take a picture of her with one of the guards (you know, the ones whose job it is NOT to move a muscle, ever) and as I snapped the shot, she pinched the guy. On the bottom. Who else would do that! I learned two things: one, they really DON’T move, for anything, (he never even blinked) and two, Lisa would always push the propriety envelop (I was sure we would be arrested). And that’s what made her so amazingly fun to be with, and I think that is why Shell benefited greatly by having her as an employee. It saddens me deeply that one so full of life is now gone. But I have to believe that Lisa lived 10 lives to some people’s one. She gave it everything she had, which is more than most of us start with. I will smile as I think about her shaking things up in the afterlife. Should be a lot of fun.

- Pat Craymer-Atkins

I worked as Lisa's admin assistant for about 4 years. During that time I learned that a person can actually change clothes in a car while driving (including taking off panty hose)! This most often happened when she was on her way to the airport! She never left early enough, she always said she hated waiting for her flight. So for a 4:00 pm INTERNATIONAL flight, she would leave downtown Houston at 3:00 pm. Amazing!

- Donna Chance

I worked with Lisa at NCNB/NationsBank (now Bank of America). In fact, I hired her! Lisa and Carl lived in our neighborhood in Richardson and we often drove to work together. She was such a treasure..always fun of life...always positive. I remember she drove a green BMW which she loved. I remeber how much she loved her kids. We lost contact through the years but I last saw her in 2005 when she attended my father's funeral in Houston.

- Randy Beall

Lisa was a force for change for the womens network in the UK. She brought her experience of the benefits and richness of being in a network from the US to the ladies in Shell UK. She inspired many people at all levels of the organisation to become involve and participate in the network. Lisa was always charming, wonderfully organised, immaculatey dressed, funny, and when needed, strong and influential in her personal style. She cared for people and you felt that when you talked to her. Most of all, she was passionate that a women's network would enrich the lives of women and men who worked for Shell in the UK. She helped SWN UK start their journey and her vision of a network that women want to join and that Shell can be proud of has been realised. When I took over from Lisa as the President of the SWN UK, she gave me a pen with a small angel on the top. Its sits on my desk and reminds me of Lisa. Lisa I know you will have your own guardian angel looking after you. Thank you for having a huge influence on my life.

- Ruth Leach

When I think of Lisa, I think how much she loved her family. One time we were accessorizing their new lake home, She wanted a creative way to show her Grandmother's hats. Lisa even had the original hatboxes! We surrounded her closet with them so she saw them every day. She had photos of her Grandmother,too. Lisa looked so much like her. One day after work, I went over to bring something, and Carl was already home. Lisa wasnot. He says " you better move your car out of the driveway before she comes flying in and goes right over it! That was our Lisa. A real "Type A"!!! I will treasure her sweet spirit. Glad I got to know her. DianaWitt

- dIANA wITT

January two years ago, I was Lisa's houseguest for the weekend. I met her at a wine bar in the Woodlands on a Friday night about 8pm. We sat outside under the heaters and started on a bottle of wine. The entire time Lisa was on her cellphone conducting a production meeting with the creative team for commercials to be shot in LA. She would sip, gossip, and, every now and then, bark into the cellphone, "That doesn't work for me." or "I can live with that." Friday night and she was still working and still in command. I didn't feel slighted or ignored. Lisa could always manage work, friends, family and fun - sometimes all at one time! Our weekend included an event for Christian's school, shopping, dinner, an art film, book exchange, and a mad dash to get me back to airport.

- Denise White

It was a beautiful Friday morning when I entered the Pennzoil North Tower building for work and encountered Lisa in the lobby. Hi Lisa! I haven’t seen you in so long – what a stunning outfit! Lisa was clad in ‘Payne Stewart’ style khaki knickerbockers, collegiate plaid knee socks, a navy short sleeve polo shirt and white golf shoes. In amazement I remarked, Lisa, I didn’t know you play golf! Lisa responded, well this is my first time but I’m playing with the Senior Leader of the organization I’m trying to secure a job with and I’m going to get this job!!! Determined, confident, and filled with humor...only Lisa!!!

- Nancy Stroud

Lisa Carlson I met Lisa in her role as Jiffy Lube’s marketing director. She knew me only as a franchisee. But she gave more than the job required. She gave herself. It was in the way she put herself into the exchange. Even if it was just a hello, a handshake wouldn’t do. A greeting with Lisa included an embrace. It meant call me later; don’t worry we’ll talk about your business. She had a gift to make you feel included, that you were an insider to the business at hand, and that you and she shared a merriment that she conveyed with her smile. The last time I saw Lisa was at a convention in Canada. She of course gave me the Lisa embrace as we hurried to meetings. But as time went on we never had that last conversation. I am sorry for that. Lisa showed us not only her professionalism but also her personal warmth and graciousness. -Randy Stevens Randy and Elissa Stevens Flamingo Properties

- Randy Stevens

I will never forget the wonderful memories of basketball season we shared with our girls when they were young. Lisa was truly a wonderful person who I will always remember. As sad as I am to hear this news I know God has her in his arms and I cannot think of a better place to be. To the family I will keep you in my prayers and know "YOUR MOM" was one of a kind. Toni Lopez Ashley & Taylor Lopez

- Toni Lopez

Several times hanging out at Butch and Rhonda's lake home, Rhonda, Lisa and I, all still in our PJ's, were watching TV and we found ouselves being quite outspoken about what people were saying, wearing and doing. Our comments were hilarious and right on. We thought it was such a waste to not share our wisdom and opinions with others. We thought it would be a great idea if we did our own Reality TV show called THREE CHICKS IN PJ'S. We would sit in our PJ's and critisize -- I mean critique -- everyone and we would have the final word on every topic. We knew we had a hit show.

- Sandra Castellanos

Lisa Thought that I‘ll to drop just a few lines to tell you about my memories. Remember when we met for the first time. You were so welcoming! I learnt later that that was very much you, and all around you enjoyed so much your ease to connect, your support, your contagious laugh. It was always so much fun working around you. I believe people will always remember you as a brave fighter, for your ideas, for the people close to you, for your support for other women and youngsters, for those who needed more. Stubbornness? Well I prefer to say that it was a kind of divine obsession for what was right. Rightness was always very high in your agenda and that was contagious as well. You were always so much interested in others and your capacity to support knew no fatigue. I remember you even checking that I was ok when I fell asleep on planes (which as you know I tend to do quite easily). And it was not all about work. You were always so supportive and interested in my personal life journey. And how much you enjoyed happy endings! But I will remember you not for what you were but for what you are, a loving soul whose friendship and care I treasure as a grand possession. Luis

- Luis Scoffone

Lisa had real drive, a passion for excellence and dedication to the cause. Smart, articulate, always a laugh and a smile. Always a hugger--she connected well with people. High standards, high intensity, but a soft side as well. I was helping her with some things just before her health worsened. I am happy to have known her, I am saddened by her leaving us all too soon.

- dennis doggett

My name is Dick Ostler and I had the chance to work with Lisa over the past 5 years at Jiffy Lube. I will always remember Lisa for her honor, sense of fairness, integrity, and commitment to help Jiffy Lube. I also remember Lisa for all the positive things she said about her kids. She was so proud of them. I remember her excitement of checking out schools for her daughter. I remember how proud she was to be a grandmother. I also remember her commitment to helping others. Once when talking about Hurricane Katrina, she commented on how she was down at the Houston shelter helping the folks that had to evacuate. Lisa: You are a wonderful person and lived a wonderful life. I know you are in a good place. We will miss you! Your legacy will live on with your family and colleges. Dick Ostler

- Richard Ostler

I met Lisa in 1999 when I joined the Shell People Services group under Dick Perelman's leadership. Lisa was our account manager and interface into IT services. She was always a joy in meetings, always thinking out of the box. She moved onto many new assignments over the next nine years. She never forgot us, when she was in town, she would just stop by to see how things was going. She was very encouraging and an inspiration to all women who she worked with in Shell.

- Nita Leschinger

Lisa and I have crossed paths several times in my career with Shell but unfortunately I didn’t have the privilege of working directly with her. Although, the time we did spend together was rather brief, I feel like I really got an opportunity to know her. She was fair, objective, and strong but most importantly balanced. Like most I admired her and my memories of her as a mom, leader and a professional will continue to guide and motivate me. I would like to thank her family for sharing her with us however brief. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Warmest Regards.

- Jessica Bell

This is an example of Lisa using her playfulness to make things intersting and memorable. It is also one of the many examples of how much she loved all three of her children. One evening after long day at work during one of my visits, Lisa made dinner for us all (Lisa, Christian, a summer intern, and myself). She had picked up chinese food at a local restaurant and then made home-made Fried Rice (which she said Christian really liked). She served up the dinner and we sat down to watch the final espisode of a reality talent show (Christian might remember better but I think it was American Idol). Most of us were cheering for the favorite, but Lisa proclaimed that the underdog was going to win. Someone said "you want to bet?!) and before you know it, Lisa and her intern were betting about the outcome. Lisa proposed that the loser would have to wear to work whatever the winner picked out for them to wear. Her intern sort of paled, swallowed hard and then decided to bet. All of a sudden, the slightly boring final results of the reality show got exciting. Christian started thinking of things that his mom would hate wearing to work (bobby sox and high heels, his great grandmother's hat, mismatched colors and styles). He had a ball thinking of things that would make her miserable! She had a ball watching him have so much fun. Of course, the underdog did not win and Lisa lost. I flew out the next morning early so I didn't see what they cooked up for her but I heard (from her) that she wore the absurd outfit to work the next day with a smile of pride on her face! She would not see Christian for a few days but Lisa knew that the image of her in that absurd get up would delight him until she got back. She loved him soo very much.

- Elizabeth Reuthe

I met Lisa in Boston one evening as she was helping Caitlin organize a new apartment while at Emerson College. We finally located the address, found a parking spot in downtown Boston and then found Caitlin and friends and looked at the apartment. Caitlin had arrived in Boston early (to work at a local retail store). She had already set up her bed and organized her desk. She was sharing the apartment with friends who had not moved in yet (only newly delivered packing boxes proved that they woud eventually be there). Lisa looked around the rooms her sharp eyes...evaluating the situation carefully. making sure that Caitlin had chosen her room well and that she would be safe and secure there. While there, several of Caitlin's friends came by and Lisa invited us all to dinner. Found a cozy restaurant near Fenway Park (Red Sox stadium) and bought us all dinner. She was so generous, she would have included a large crowd if they had showed up! Beautiful Caitlin reminded Lisa of herself. She loved her so much and wanted to be there for her in a way that her mom never had been for her. And she was.

- Elizabeth Reuthe

While I don't have a specific story to share, what I appreciated most about Lisa was her ability to laugh and to cause others to laugh with her. Her laughter was absolutely contagious, and no matter how challenging of a day you were having, she could always bring a smile to your face.

- Tricia Singer

When I first started working with Lisa, I came to Houston and she insisted that I stay at her home instead of a hotel. She picked me up at the airport and welcomed me into her new home in the Woodlands. she had decorated it with such care and as she showed me around, I became interested in the many pictures and artifacts that spoke of her love for her family. Here son Trei and Danilee and her beloved grandchildren, there Kaitlin, Christian, her dad, her mom, brothers, grandmother, so many...each picture or artifact had a story and a special place in Lisa's heart. She so clearly cherished them all. Preparing dinner together, I admired a card with a beautiful picture on her refrigerator. "Oh, that's a thank you note from Danielle, Trei's wife! Have a look. You know I love her like she is my own daughter. I am so lucky that she is in my life!"

- Elizabeth Reuthe

While working the Jiffy Lube Convention, Lisa and I discussed my upcoming project, the New Orleans Jazz Festival. Lisa offered to work the event with me. Not thinking she’d really take time from a weekend to do this, I told her to think about it and let me know. About a month later, Lisa phoned and said, “I’m ready to work…what do I need to do.” Since our group wasn’t accustomed to someone at Lisa’s level working an event with us, we were on our best behavior at the Staff Dinner. After about 15 minutes, Lisa’s personality, stories and laughter put everyone at ease. We began to think, “this girl could be fun”! We so underestimated just how much fun we would have with Lisa as an “honorary” member of our team. After a long day of working, we all piled into our 15-passenger van for the ride back to the hotel. We had the music blaring, some impromptu singing and were stuck in a very long line of traffic. After much laughter, Lisa announced it would be more fun to get out of the van and dance down the sidewalk. She proceeded to do just that and was followed by a couple other members of the team. I think all of us who were there that day will never forget the image of Lisa (and two others all dressed alike in their staff uniforms) with her arms raised, dancing down the sidewalk. At first we were speechless at the site, and then the humor of the situation set in. All the cars lined up along the street were also staring at the three wild and crazy women dancing down the sidewalk. Many were laughing and pointing, but Lisa only made them wish they could join in. As Lisa made her way back to the van and we all told her how impressive she was twisting and shaking, she settled back into the seat and said, “Ok, now what are we going to do tomorrow?” We will all miss Lisa’s joy and certainly her dancing. She made memories for all of us that day….memories that will bring a smile each time we remember our eventful ride back to the hotel. It won’t be the same without her this year at Jazz Fest.

- Paula Ezernack

The first time I met Lisa was when she and Carl came to a party at my house. She was out on my front porch along with me and her crazy husband stomping away "dancing flamenco." It was hard not to like her instantly. She was always ready to laugh.

- Laura Lopez

Lisa deserves a special place in our memories as a good person and we in the UK are particularly grateful to her for the vision and determination she showed in getting the Shell Women's Network UK established. It is a great testimony to Lisa that the Shell Women's Network, based on the strong foundations she created, continues to go from strength to strength. The Network supports of the progress of women in Shell, it's a great help to the achievement of Shell's business goals and a model that other networks in the UK have been able to follow in extending the cause of diversity and inclusiveness in Shell. Lisa is remembered with warmth and admiration. The Shell Women's Network in the UK ensures she will not be forgotten. James James Smith Chairman Shell U.K. Limited Shell Centre, London SE1 7NA, United Kingdom

- James Smith

Our Belize Trip Lisa and Carl joined Butch and Rhonda West and us on a trip to Belize for a week of relaxation and fun. We enjoyed swimming with the sting rays and snorkeling in the unspoiled great waters during the days and our cocktail hour before playing dominoes late into the evening. We stayed in thatched huts in very primitive accommodations to experience the remote lifestyle. We enjoyed cold stone crab and many cocktails as we strolled along the beautiful Belize beaches. Carl and Lisa left a couple of days earlier to get home to be with the kids for Halloween. We will always treasure this memory with great friends. Gordon & Sherry Hill

- Gordon& Sherry Hill

Fun in Santa Fe, Lisa and Pam flew into Santa Fe for a girls weekend to celebrate Lisa's birthday. We had spa treatments at Ten Thousand Waves and dined on Santa Fe cuisine. We participated in a cooking class at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. At dinner, Pam was quite entertaining after two glasses of Sangria. Lisa had one heck of a shopping spree at a Santa Fe boutique. It was a great weekend. Sherry Hill

- Sherry Hill

Mine is not a story, but a reflection on Lisa's qualities that I most admired. Lisa certainly had a passion for her work and bias for getting things done, but she never lost focus on people and the needs of those around her. Even during the most hectic and stressful times, she always took time to check in and ask how you were doing. Her plans for achieving specific objectives always included activities to make the work fun and enjoyable. She showed genuine concern for the needs of those around her, making this a priority rather than an afterthought. She loved to laugh and make those around her laugh and enjoy themselves. Her joy and caring will be missed by many.

- Myron Menk

I knew and loved Lisa while we were in high school at CHS. I believe Lisa was a year younger than me. I was a litle lost after having gone through a bad breakup...she thought it would be cool to wear western clothes EVERYWHERE...to school, to church, etc...so we did for a couple of weeks. It was crazy. People did sort of point and whisper but by then my broken heart had passed and we go over that phase....I went on to graduate and we lost touch....your Mom was a great, fun, one of a kind person.

- Pam Williamson

Lisa was a very ambitious woman who worked hard for what she believed in.

- Michelle Word

Caitlin, I, along with my sister Michaelyn, baby sat you when you were a young girl. I was even there with you the night Christian was born! Your Mom was always so warm, loving, and strong, and I remember thinking, "She's about to have a baby?!" She was so calm. While I cannot believe Lisa has departed your life so young, I know she truly lived while she was alive. Your family is one that my family foldly remembers. Thanks for creating this memory book. I look forward to reading everyone else's stories. My love to you all.

- Megan Kelley Hunt

Lisa Carlson is a a former San Antonio American Marketing Association president, and, although I didn't work with her then, she did participate in our Past President's Advisory Council in recent years and I've had the pleasure of knowing her. I will always remember Lisa as one of the most professional and personable women I have ever known. She is beloved by all.

- Carolyn Bacon

I am so sorry to have to part with working with Lisa on the annual Jiffy Lube conference project in which I've been involved as an outside vendor the past few years. I truly appreciated Lisa's "get 'er done" attitude and vivacious personality. After the Jiffy Lube conference in Orlando a couple years back, she invited a group of us out to dinner to thank us for our work. At dinner, which was a restaurant where the waiters break out into song, she got the 20+ of us to sing along to the various show tunes. Not only was she the catylst for a fun, laugh 'til you cry evening, but she also would stir up the table by randomly asking questions ... questions like, "What was the first album you ever bought. What was the first concert you ever attended." I don't remember all the answers, but I certainly will remember Lisa's fun-loving personality and that evening of hilarity. I will miss her.

- Melanie Biggar Scalley

1st of all let me convey my sympathy and sorrow in your loss. . I am a District Manager for Jiffy Lube and live in Virginia. I have a short story to tell about Lisa that you might like to know. We were in San Antonio, Texas for the Jiffy Lube Convention in 2005 (I believe). We had an hour or so long bus drive and we ended up at a small rodeo / ranch for an evening with our franchisees. Lisa, to my surprise, knew how to ride a horse pretty darn good. Anyway, we had some good food and a local band was there playing country / western music. Soon people began to “line dance” / of course I can’t dance a bit. Lisa must have noted this as I just stood and watched. She came over to me, grabbed my arm and told me “Get out here and have some fun” She spent a couple minutes with me attempting to get me to learn the steps. I just felt like I had two left feet. Plus I was most likely embarrassed. But something interesting happened in that next few minutes / I remember Lisa telling me “You need to relax, and have fun” “Don’t worry about what people think about you, just enjoy yourself” Lisa didn’t have to go out of her way, but she did. But most importantly, the kindness and effort to make me feel comfortable will not be forgotten. Thank you, and May God bless you all in your time of grief. Joseph P. Kerr District Manager Jiffy Lube International Virginia / West Virginia ) CELL: (804) 690-9304 : e-mail: joseph.kerr@shell.com

- Joseph Kerr

The world has truly lost a fabulous lady. I've only seen Lisa a very few times since graduating from Conroe High School in '71. But what an impression she made on me. Lisa always liked to have fun, I can still hear her laughter that seemed to come from the tips of her toes!! But it was always good, clean fun we all had......most of the time anyway!! There was the time, which is the first time I remember she was with us "hanging out". Driving up and down Frazier St over and over and over. A car load of girls circling around and through Burger Chef (which isn't there any more) out to Davis St and left on Frazier. Then down Frazier to the shopping center where the movie theatre was located. Circle through there and back up Frazier again to start all over again. In fact, that night I met my future husband. Boy what memories this brings back. Lisa was even in our wedding. Oh my....those horrible pink dresses I made the bridesmaids wear!! Oh yeah.....that night the rest of us rolled on the ground in laughter as Lisa dressed in jeans and cowboy boots, a pigtail in each hand pretending to be an airplane roaring up and down the street. sound effects and all. She then proceeded to check everyones mail box and switch any mail she found to other boxes. Oh my goodness I miss her!! May God continue to bless you all. He really blessed you with a wonderful Mom, Granma, sister, aunt and friend!! Judy Jones Aguilar

- Judy Aguilar

Love is the word. Crazy, vivacious, passionate LOVE…Love of life and All Persons! You could not help but LOVE Lisa Carlson because you knew instantly how much she loved you when you came in contact with her. From the moment I met Lisa at Shell over 12 years ago I knew how blessed I was to have come in contact with such an incredible person. I was one of the fortunate few who came to know Lisa not just on a professional level but on a personal one too. Professionally Lisa was as passionate about her career as she was about her family. My favorite story and experience Lisa and I shared together was referred to as “Dancing on the Desk” during her memorial service. When I first met Lisa she and I collaborated on a significant retail marketing project at Shell. Against all odds and many naysayer who said we were both crazy we were able to sell in a proposal to get several million dollars in funding with no questions. Upon returning to our offices this occasion was celebrated by dancing on the desk in exuberant triumph and Lisa made sure this was witnessed by some of the “naysayers”. Lisa’ ability to bring triumph, perseverance, passion and celebration to the top of the desk that day is a memory I cherish and spoke volumes about her. From that day forward I always knew I would want to stay in touch with and work with Lisa in my career. She was one of the few colleagues and managers that I considered to be both a “mentor” and “friend. Lisa was an ambassador for diversity and charity in all that she did which again speaks to her love of life and people. Many of you have been touched by this as I have as well. Maude, Megan and Tim. There is no way I can begin to speak to all of Lisa’s personal and professional accomplishments I can only speak to how she impacted me personally as a friend and mentor over 12 years. I was unable to see Lisa since June 17th when all this began but this is what she wanted. She wanted me and all of you to remember her as the vibrant passionate person we all know and love. While driving back to visit family in the Midwest over Christmas my daughter Hannah from the back seat called my attention to a cloud in the sky. At the time all was quite in the car with the kids in the back and I was in deep thought as I have been many times about Lisa. From the back seat my Daughter Hannah who is 8 called out Dad look at that cloud in the sky. It was a deep vibrant orange sunset across the Arkansas countryside. Above was a cloud in the shape of the holy cross. At that moment I knew everything was going to be all right with Lisa she was speaking to me at that moment and a peace fell upon me. I am at peace Lisa is at Peace and I hope all of you are as well. God is Love and Love is the word I remember when I think of Lisa. I love you and we love you Lisa for all you gave and all your life stood for ! We will always honor you and remember the love you gave us everyday and for that we are forever indebted and will never forget. Heaven just got one heck of a director of Marketing in its newest angel. For the faithful among us we look forward to all the memories you’ve provided us that we will cherish for the rest of our days and for your beautiful light shining down from above.

- Greg Wehr

Lisa and I worked together early in our careers at 1776 - a small restaurant chain in San Antonio, Texas. Lisa was the energy and fun that made work enjoyable. I'll always remember Lisa dressed as a fairy with miles of tulle and her magic wand - it was costume day and she took it to heart to make us all laugh as she flitted from office to office, touching us all with her magic wand of goodness. Our fun at the Rod Steward concert, escapades on airlines, and all the rest of my memories of Lisa are filled with smiles, laughter and warmth. I am sad that I did not get a chance to reconnect with Lisa in time to tell her how much I loved her and will treasure the fun she brought to my life. She made me "Catherine the Great" in so many ways. Thank you from my heart, Lisa.

- Catherine Kreston

I was brand new to Shell when I met Lisa. I was young, naive and nervous. We only worked together for a couple of weeks on a short term assignment but she left an impression. Lisa was funny and confident and she made me feel safe. She took me under her wings and through her humor made me feel like I belonged. I still remember the discreet grins she would send me even as "important" CEO's were presenting their profound work. It was as if she was saying "it's all just a game and you can play just as well as the rest of us." I knew that she was looking out for me and making sure I was okay. For that I will always remember Lisa. If she had this kind of impact on me in such a short time, I can only imagine all the others she touched. It seems appropriate that I quote Emerson when he said: "To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children, to earn the approbation of honest critics; to appreciate beauty; to give of one's self, to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived--that is to have succeeded." I will miss her.

- Jamie Bakhtiary

I originally met Lisa in the Shell Retail Org in 1997/98 but it wasn't until 2006/7 that we reconnected. I attended a Women's Career Development Class and she was one of the evening speakers...what a passion she had for helping women achieve their dreams and become appreciated within Shell. Anyway, we were looking at each other all through dinner, as though we knew each other, and once the dinner was over I went up and introduced myself and she screamed, "Oh my gosh! Sonja, how have you been? I have not seen you since Tim Sprik was in Shell." Then it hit me that we had worked together on the credit card database marketing and customer loyalty project many years earlier. Well, I immediately asked her to mentor me and of course - as she always did - she graciously agreed. We met a couple of weeks later, I shared my dreams and struggles, and she shared hers. We realized we attended the same church and knew many of the same people...it really is such a small world. One story in particular that I shared was my frustration with saying things that I wish I hadn't and Lisa said to me, "oh don't worry about that, we all say things we wish we hadn't." But what really put my mind at ease was a story she shared when she had done the same and I think this story is worth telling (please note that this is paraphrasing and the details may be slightly off but the gist is there.) Lisa had attended some sort of workshop for leadership to understand the needs, struggles, and desires of women and minorities in Shell. She had spent a few minutes walking around the room and realized that there were only women and minorities in the audience, some 150, or so, and only white males on stage. So she asked for the microphone and proceeded to ask a tactfully composed question about the leadership’s commitment to the advancement of women and minorities in Shell. The head of the forum explained that he was VERY committed to seeing that opportunities would be provided and other blah-blah rhetoric. Well, in Lisa's wonderful way, she responded by saying, "yes, I can see that you are committed since there are 13 white males on the stage and none in the audience." Of course, this made me feel awesome that I was not the only one that ever stuck my foot in my mouth. Some of the details have been left out of this story but it shows that Lisa was not afraid to stand up for what she believed. Lisa always had a way of making people feel good about themselves as well as holding people accountable in a non-threatening way. I shared my story with her and she encouraged me to follow my dreams. Lisa had an incredibly strong faith that showed in every caring action and word she expressed. She suggested I speak with our associate pastor and obtain additional guidance from him. It's funny how God places people in our lives for a season but always with a specific reason. I am so blessed to have been able to call Lisa a friend and mentor. She impacted my life in ways she could have never realized, as I'm sure she did with so many others. Lisa will be sorely missed and even though the world has been a better place for having her in it, there is so much more that I know she wanted to accomplish for others. The best way we can commemorate her is to take the same attitude in helping others believe in themselves and achieve their dreams. We will all miss you and think of you often but are better for having known you!!! Thank you for your caring, loving ways. God Bless

- Sonja Ruehle