Melissa Pauline Wise, lovingly known as Lisa, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 64.
Born on July 22, 1961, in Sikeston, Missouri, Lisa was the cherished daughter of Patricia Sue Parr Wise and Paul Edward Wise, both of whom preceded her in death. She was the first in her family to earn a college degree, graduating from Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) with a degree in Business Administration—an accomplishment that reflected her determination and quiet strength.
Lisa lived life with warmth, kindness, and grace. She was compassionate, generous, gentle, and selfless. Her generosity extended to anyone who needed a place to call home, as she shared her house with extended family and friends any time someone had a need for a bed and roof. She would also encourage anyone coming into the house to taste all the new healthy food concoctions she was always stirring up for her own health and that of anyone else that got to eat it with her. Lisa was someone who made friends wherever she went and thrived in social settings, creating a support group everywhere she and husband Simon moved, which has provided lasting friendships in more than four cities across the US. Her radiant smile, love of music, and enthusiasm for dancing brought joy to countless gatherings. Years ago she even told her soon to be husband Simon she would never marry a man who couldn’t dance, so Simon learned to dance because he didn’t want her to get away. Many spectators were surprised and delighted to see her graceful steps to just about any classical dance the music welcomed. She had an adventurous spirit and a deep love for travel, especially overseas trips to visit dear friends she did not often have the opportunity to see. Italy, Greece, Hungary, England and Australia are a few of the places she enjoyed.
In her early adult years, Lisa lived in Los Angeles, California, before returning to Missouri in 1993. In 1995, she met the love of her life, Simon Dirnberger, at a mutual friend’s Christmas party. Together, they built a life rooted in love, partnership, and shared adventure. Their adventure brought them first to St. Louis, MO, then through Simon’s career to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 2005 and later to the Dallas–Fort Worth in 2012. Despite these moves, Lisa never lost her deep love for St. Louis. She frequently returned to Missouri to spend time with friends and to lovingly support her aging parents until their passing. The purchase of their home in Crestwood allowed Lisa to once again spend much of her time in the St. Louis area, reconnecting with the friends and community she treasured so dearly.
Lisa is survived by her devoted husband, Simon Dirnberger; her sister and brother-in-law, Pam (Wise) and Terry Johnson of St. Louis; her brother, Sam Wise of Jackson; her nephew, David Johnson and family; and her niece, Samantha (Wise) Heaton and family. She also leaves behind many extended family members and beloved friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness and friendship.
Her love and light will continue to live on in all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at St. Raymond-St. Elizabeth. Light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
1420 S Sappington Rd
St Louis, MO 63126
Following the service, friends and family are welcome to gather next door at Simon and Lisa’s home to continue celebrating Lisa’s life in a more casual atmosphere and to stay as long as they wish. Those who would like to bring a dish to share or beverages are welcome to do so, though there is no obligation.
A second Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in the Dallas–Fort Worth area for those for whom that location is more convenient.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org) or to a favorite nonprofit charity in Lisa’s honor.
Lisa’s life was defined by love—love for her family, her friends, her community, and the world she so joyfully explored. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.