Lisa Dawn Gladden

Lisa Dawn Gladden

December 14, 1964-May 18, 2026

Lisa Dawn Gladden passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Born in Chattanooga on December 14, 1964, Lisa lived a life marked by adventure, generosity, strength, and deep devotion to the people and animals she loved.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Donald Gladden; her stepfather, Joe Thomas; and her grandparents, Arnold Clark “A.C.” Floyd and Edith Louise Robinson Floyd, and Walter and Hazel Gladden.

Lisa leaves behind her beloved mother, Barbara Floyd Gladden Thomas; her sister, Janet Gladden Caiazzo; and her nephew, Dante Caiazzo. She is also survived by cherished cousins and lifelong friends, including Cheryl Moore, Donna Hendrix, Jim Pulliam, Tracy Longobardi, and Nicholas Longobardi — who were family in every way that mattered. (Step siblings) Marilyn Hutchins, Judy (Danny) Sherill, Janet Jordan, Danny (Cindy) Thomas.

A 1983 graduate of Lookout Valley High School, Lisa excelled in softball and basketball and carried that same spirit of determination and teamwork throughout her life. She was a longtime member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Chattanooga.

Early in her career, Lisa served as an officer with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department in Orlando, Florida. She later returned home to Chattanooga, where she built a respected career at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga as Supervisor of Environmental Health and Safety. She earned numerous professional certifications related to environmental health and EPA compliance and was a proud member of the National Fire Protection Association. She was also a member of the UTC Scuba club and enjoyed helping many students obtain their certifications on open water dives in Florida.

But Lisa was far more than her accomplishments.

She was a voyager at heart — someone who embraced the world with curiosity and courage. Whether traveling through Europe and Hawaii, snowmobiling in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or adventuring solo to Jamaica and Alaska, Lisa believed life was meant to be experienced fully and fearlessly.

She also loved motorcycles and proudly participated many times in the Trail of Tears Ride honoring the Cherokee people of the Appalachian region.

Gifted with an extraordinary mechanical mind, Lisa could repair almost anything. Family and friends knew that before calling a repairman, they should probably call Lisa first. From cars and motorcycles to home appliances, she approached every challenge with patience, skill, and confidence.

Her love of gardening brought beauty wherever she lived. Lisa delighted in helping friends and family – especially her Mother --create backyard sanctuaries filled with flowers and color. It was nearly impossible for her to leave Lowe’s without bringing home another plant for the garden.

Lisa’s compassion extended especially to animals. She rescued, cared for, and found loving homes for countless creatures over the years — from dogs and cats to more unusual companions, including a monkey, a pig, and a miniature horse.

Above all, Lisa will be remembered for her generous heart. She quietly helped people whenever she saw a need, often anonymously and without seeking recognition. Her kindness, humor, adventurous spirit, and fierce independence left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She made the world brighter, warmer, and more interesting simply by being in it — and she will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the MARC Marion Animal Resource Connection.

Arrangements are entrusted by Jasper Memorial Funeral Home 150 Cornerstone Dr. Jasper, TN. 37347

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