Basilisa "Lisa" Rivera

Basilisa "Dine', Lisa" Rivera (Santos) went on to be with the Lord, on December 2, 2023, in Lynden, Washington, at the age of 81. She was born on March 22, 1942, in Comerio, Puerto Rico. Basilisa, also known as (Lisa, Dine, Mom, Mama, Grandma, GG), was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many.

Lisa grew up in Comerio, Puerto Rico, and at the age of 16, she met and married her husband, Elliot. They moved to New York City, where Lisa began her married life. Despite facing challenges, including Elliot's struggle with alcoholism, Lisa's strength and resilience shone through. She stayed by his side for the sake of their children, Linda and Michael, and her unwavering love and loyalty eventually led to his recovery. They left New York in 1964, pregnant with Linda. Following most of the Rivera clan they settled in California. After living in California Lisa followed her daughter and family and settled in the PNW. Family always came first, and she sacrificed her own happiness for the well-being of her loved ones.

In addition to her unwavering devotion to her family, Lisa was known for her beauty, infectious smile, and joyful giggle. She worked as a seamstress for Serena Swimwear Co in California. Lisa had a servant's heart and enjoyed crocheting, making fleece blankets, and her famous scrubbies. She took pride in folding clothes and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her grandchildren often sought her wise advice, and she had a great sense of humor that only grew with age.

Lisa's faith was an important aspect of her life, and she worshipped at CHCC. She found solace in singing hymns and found joy in both traditional hymns and contemporary Latin music, such as Marc Anthony and salsa. Lisa's love for Jesus was evident in her actions and the way she treated others.

In her free time, Lisa enjoyed dancing, watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling, she loved long road trips, slot machines, Las Vegas, Bingo, Rummicub, kings in Corner. (She was serious about games and very competitive) She had a deep love for babies and animals as she got older, and her independent and feisty nature made her all the more endearing.

Lisa will be deeply missed by her daughter, Linda, her son, Michael, her grandchildren, Ruben Jr, Andrew, Justin, Ariana, Talisa, Susanna, and Angelina, as well as her great-grandchildren, Esme, Ruby, Jonah, Logan, Kyden, Aliyah, Levi, and Avery. She is also survived by her brothers, Tono and Gilberto Santos. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. As well as best friend/sister-in-law, Nelly Rivera, whom she spent many visits with in Arizona.

Lisa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Elliot, her brother Wiso, her mother, Guido, and her father, Juan. She was also preceded in death by many beloved Rivera in-laws.

A Celebration of Life honoring Lisa, affectionately known as Mama Lisa to those at her place., will be held on January 19, 2024, at 2:30 pm at New Song Church, located at 4600 Guide Meridian Bellingham, WA 98226. The funeral arrangements are being handled by Sig's Funeral Home. For those wanting to send flowers and sympathy cards please send them to New Song Church. 

Lisa's legacy of love, loyalty, strength, and humor will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace in heaven as she is finally pain free. We see her dancing with Elliot up there and hear lots of laughter. We love you! Until we meet again.