Lois Jean (DeBiase) DeLisa, 76, wife of James William "Bill" DeLisa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday afternoon, March 22, 2022, in her home in Marriottsville, MD, with the support of hospice, after living 13-years with Alzheimer's Disease.

Lois was born on July 27, 1945, to the late Dominic and Mary (Kovalsky) DeBiase in Windber, PA. After graduating from Richland High School in 1963, she went on to study Sociology/Psychology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, graduating in 1967.

Lois began her career in early childhood education. She was employed at Cambria County Head Start as a preschool teacher. She went on to establish the Child Care & Development Center of the First Presbyterian Church of Windber, PA, serving as the administrator/director for 21 years. Lois served as a Child Advocate for more than 30 years. She retired in 2010.

Lois served on the advisory boards of the Penn State Better Kid Care program and the Greater Johnstown Vocational & Technical School in the Child Shop program. She was a former member of the Windber Area Business Association.

Lois was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Windber, PA, from 1968 until 2011, where she served as an ordained Elder.

Lois was a gifted artist, enjoyed knitting, embroidery, and counted cross stitch. She left behind many beloved works of art for her family to enjoy. She also was an avid reader and loved music (classical, 50's, 60's, 70's rock, and hymns). She enjoyed singing "You are My Sunshine" with her daughters. Her special song was "Forever Young" by Bob Dylan.

Lois is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Bill, with whom she shared 53 years in marriage; daughters, Holly DeLisa Conner (Daniel), Wendy DeLisa Ankney (Raymond "Bernie"), Amy DeLisa (David Hughes); grandchildren, Joshua Hughes (Julia), Lauren Conner, Dominic Ankney, Fiona Conner, Ava Conner, Adrienne Ankney, Sofia DeLisa-Hughes, Luke Ankney, and Giuseppe DeLisa-Hughes.

Lois was predeceased by her sister, Joan DeBiase DeLisa (survived by John "Jack").

A private memorial is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association.

To write online condolences, please visit http:///www.harrywitzkefuneralhome.com/obituary/Lois-Jean-DeLisa.