In loving memory of Marissa and Josiah Divodi-Lessa

***UPDATE 8/25***

Today the family has learned they will also be responsible for unanticipated legal fees in relation to this tragic event. Please continue to share their story. Thank you to all who have showered them with support. They feel such love and gratitude from each and every one of you.

It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of two cherished members of our community, Marissa (Herzog) Divodi-Lessa, and her young son, Josiah Divodi-Lessa. As a friend and co-worker of Joy Cavaghan (Marissa’s mother - and grandmother to Jojo) I’ve been asked to help organize this fundraiser. I am in direct contact with Joy and her husband Peter Cavaghan to ensure their needs are met. I am working closely with them to ensure that all funds raised go directly to the family via their appointed beneficiary, Peter Cavaghan.

As their family navigates the grief of such a sudden and tragic loss, we, as friends and neighbors, want to support them in any way we can. In addition to bearing this emotional burden, the family now faces unexpected financial challenges. If you are able, please consider contributing to help ease this burden.

From the family:

“Marissa was such a light and full of love and life. She loved her babies. She loved people. She loved God. She was a hard worker with an indomitable spirit and strong convictions.”

From Marissa’s surviving daughter and JoJo’s big sister:

"She always made me laugh. She would always tuck in at night and we would always tell each other, "I love you." "I love you more." "I love you most." We loved playing card games, watching movies and hanging out. My brother, Jojo, would always play games with me, especially Hide-and-Seek. That day, we made a box with cute necklaces. The box had a lock on it. It was filled with toys in it (as rewards) for whenever he was good. He was such a sweet boy. Jojo had some health issues and Mommy was so good about being sure he had the right foods and proper care. She was the best Mommy everrrrr!”

Any funds raised in excess of interment costs and legal fees will be used for the care of Marissa’s surviving daughter, Serafina.

Our hearts and prayers are with this family and all who are affected by this loss. Thank you to everyone who will lift them up with love, compassion, and support during this difficult time.