*Image shows Lisa Barrett (far right) with friends and co workers Julie Paltauf (left) and Allison Stockel (center)
Before Lisa died, I made her a promise- I told her we would all rally together to make sure James is okay and taken care of once she is gone. Please donate so that James has a secure future and can attend college.
- Allison Stockel
Donate here.
Ridgefield is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Lisa Barrett, a beloved community member and former Ridgefield Playhouse employee, who passed away peacefully in her home on October 22, 2024, after a courageous battle with Stage 4 cancer. Lisa leaves behind her son, James, who was her pride and joy. At just 18 years old, James now faces an uncertain future, but his mother’s greatest comfort was knowing that her community would help take care of him in her absence.
Please consider donating to this GoFundMe campaign to support James.
Allison Stockel, former Executive Director of the Ridgefield Playhouse and close friend of Lisa, launched a GoFundMe campaign several weeks ago to assist Lisa and her family as they faced the financial and emotional toll of her illness. Now the community’s focus shifts to continuing this fundraising effort for James as he navigates life without his mother.
The funds raised will be placed in a trust to support James in his goal of attending college. As a senior in high school, he is preparing for the next chapter of his life, and the donations will be used for tuition, housing, books, and other educational expenses.
Lisa, who also worked in the marketing department at Sacred Heart University after her time at the Playhouse, was known for her warmth and dedication to the community. Even as her illness progressed, she remained hopeful for her son’s future and grateful for the love and support she received.
The outpouring of generosity from Ridgefield and beyond has already made a difference, and the community is encouraged to continue contributing to ensure that James has the resources he needs to pursue his dreams.
As the community reflects on Lisa’s life and legacy, please keep James in your thoughts and prayers. To support the ongoing fundraiser, donations can be made through the GoFundMe, page that was initially created to assist Lisa during her illness.
Lisa's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her community will honor her legacy by ensuring her son is cared for in the way she hoped.