08/28/2025
’Twas the night before retirement, and all through the closet,
No hanger was stirring, no tag, note, or deposit.
The racks stood in order, neat rows she had made,
A legacy shining in fabric displayed.
For over ten years she gave with her heart,
Building a program, a true work of art.
From denim to jackets, from mittens to shoes,
She sorted and folded with care she would choose.
The volunteers gathered, her faithful, her friends,
Who’d witnessed her vision and means to her ends.
They laughed as they sorted the bins day by day,
Dressing in donations in a comical way.
From hats of all sizes to shoes bright and bold,
The Closet held stories far greater than gold.
The community came, some weary, some worn,
And left with more hope, their burdens less torn.
For clothing was only the start of the gift,
She offered them kindness, a hand, and a lift.
And when shelves ran low or a need was expressed,
They’d whisper a prayer for a coat or a vest.
“Please God, we need this for someone today…”
And sure enough, someone would bring it their way.
She crafted new systems, made order from less,
Registration, procedures - she planned for success.
Her reach kept expanding, her impact grew wide,
The Closet grew stronger with her as its guide.
Now, pausing to rest after all she has done,
She looks back with pride on the battles she won.
The people, the stories, the laughter, the tears,
A tapestry woven through so many years.
So hang up the hangers, the registers close,
A chapter is ending, but everyone knows:
Her compassion lives on, in the hearts she has blessed,
Our mom, the coordinator, truly the best.
And we heard her exclaim, with a smile shining bright,
“Keep sharing the love, make the future grow light!” '
Composed by Arianne Burke, Lisa’s daughter
On behalf of everyone at the Clothing Closet, we will miss you, Lisa, and we wish you a happy retirement!
