Lisa Ambrose

Lisa Aretha Ambrose

January 30, 1969 - March 28, 2025

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Lisa Ambrose, who departed this life on March 28, 2025. Lisa was a woman of strength, resilience, and boundless love. She touched countless lives through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Lisa was born on January 30, 1969, to James Caine (Jim) Ambrose and Elma Marie Ambrose. She grew up in Waterloo, Iowa, and graduated from West High School. She later earned her bachelor's degree in Human Services and Social Work from Upper Iowa University, where her passion for helping others truly began.

At the young age of 33, Lisa received her first heart transplant at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, in 2003. Once she recovered and returned to Iowa, she made the decision to live her life "like it was golden." She pursued her deep passion for helping victims of domestic and sexual assault. In 2014 she founded Amani Community Services, becoming its CEO and making a lasting impact on the community.

Lisa became the first African American woman to establish a nonprofit organization in Waterloo dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. Her work with Amani Community Services changed the lives of countless individuals, and her legacy will forever be honored by all who knew her.

Lisa faced life's challenges with courage and grace, including overcoming breast cancer and receiving a second heart transplant. She fought valiantly, and even in the face of adversity, she remained strong and steadfast in her faith and love for those around her.

Lisa is survived by her mother Elma Ambrose and her children: LaTisha (Thomas), Kaylynn (Henderson), and K'von (Henderson); her grandchildren: Jaidon (Thomas), Jordyn (Thomas), Antione( Bowman Jr), A'yden (Ambrose), Maliyah( Edwards), and Kalina (Henderson); her siblings: Rita (Teague), Roy (Ambrose), Tuana(Sallis-Hart), Darlene(Bailey),Derrick(Ambrose),Katiti(Montgomery), Kelly(Stokes),Kevin(Coppage).

She was preceded in death by her loving father, James Caine (Jim) Ambrose, a beautiful niece, Toccarra Ambrose, and a grandson, Kayden Ambrose. And her favorite Aunt Effie Mae Montgomery .As well as other beloved aunts , uncles and cousins.

As per her wishes, Lisa requested to be cremated and did not want a traditional funeral. Instead, a Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on April 26, 2025 at Amani Community Services located at 1024 W.4th St. Waterloo, Ia 50702 from 11am-4pm, where family and friends can gather to remember her warmth, wisdom, and enduring spirit.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff, friends, and loved ones who provided unwavering support during Lisa's journey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to in her memory and can be sent to or dropped off at 912 western Ave, Waterloo Ia 50702.