Obituaries

Lisa (Piragas) Sohara, a lifelong Old Forge resident, suddenly passed away on Wednesday at St. Luke’s Hospital in Stroudsburg. She was 65 years young.

Born on November 18, 1960, and daughter of the late Donald and Jean (Lucarelli) Piragas, Lisa was a 1978 graduate of Old Forge High School. She would go on to earn her Bachelor of Arts Degree from East Stroudsburg University before her Master’s Degree in Science in Community Counseling from the University of Scranton. On April 20, 1985, she married her beloved husband of 41 years, David Sohara.

For most of her career, she was a dedicated leader within Lackawanna County Children’s Services, serving for many years as a supervisor in the Office of Youth and Family Services. Her caring nature, unwavering dedication, and genuine compassion touched the lives of countless children and families throughout her career. She was especially passionate about helping children find loving, permanent homes and was heavily involved in Adoption Day, an event that held a special place in her heart. Lisa took immense pride in celebrating each adoption and worked tirelessly to ensure children had the opportunity for a brighter future. Her advocacy, kindness, and commitment left a lasting impact on the community she so faithfully served.

Lisa will be remembered in countless ways. From dinners out with her friends to spending time in her backyard oasis, Lisa’s engaging personality helped to make countless memories with her family and friends. Just as amazing of a wife, mother and grandmother, she was an equally amazing cook. She loved the beaches of Atlantic City, N.J., and never missed an opportunity to visit a casino.

Simply to know Lisa was to adore her. Certainly leaving her mark on the world, she will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her heart-broken family, including her husband, David; her daughter, Kendra Parise and husband Anthony of Moosic; her grandchildren, James and Lily Parise; her siblings, Donald Piragas and Karen Kaville, both of Old Forge; and nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Lisa passed from a broken heart. On June 7, 2025, her world forever changed as she was preceded in death by her son, David Anthony Sohara, II.

A celebration of Lisa’s life is scheduled for Thursday with an 11:00 AM Funeral Mass at Divine Mercy Parish, 312 Davis Street in Scranton, to be celebrated by Rev. Paul McDonnell, Pastor.

Family and friends may pay their respects at the church on Thursday from 10:00 AM until Mass.

Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge.