The Polacca, Arizona, and Hopi and Tewa communities are mourning the loss of Lisa Lomavaya, a beloved community advocate and former emcee for the Tewanima Footrace, who passed away earlier this week after several months of hospitalization.
On August 27, 2025, Lisa suffered a major medical condition and remained under hospital care as her family and community waited patiently for her recovery.
Despite optimism and hopes for a full recovery, her condition continued to require extensive medical attention, travel, and household support, which prompted family and friends to reach out for assistance during her treatment.
Lisa, a member of the Spider Clan from the Village of Tewa, was the proud mother of four children and grandmother to one grandchild.
She was known for her radiant personality, always smiling, laughing, and encouraging those around her. Her dedication to the Hopi and Tewa communities was evident in every aspect of her life.
Professionally, Lisa served as the Public Relations Specialist at the IHS Hopi Health Care Center, where she led multiple employee, youth education, and community initiatives.
Her long-standing commitment to service extended to volunteer coordination at the Indian Health Service, where she oversaw community volunteers, medical students, resident physicians, contractors, and youth summer programs.
Lisa was also a founding board member of the Hopi-Tewa Women’s Coalition to End Abuse (HTWCEA), joining in 2008 to advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
She served as board president and dedicated her time, energy, and heart to the organization. Her leadership, integrity, and passion left a lasting mark, and she was deeply loved by those she worked with and supported.
Beyond her advocacy work, Lisa contributed to several community initiatives and cultural programs, including the Miss Hopi Committee, where she championed youth development and cultural preservation.
She also gained local recognition as the emcee of the Tewanima Footrace, a role in which she shared her vibrant energy and love for community events.
Lisa’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the Hopi and Tewa communities.
She is survived by her husband, Troy, her four children, and her grandchild. Her family, friends, and community members remember her as a true friend, a tireless advocate, and a compassionate leader.
The Polacca community, along with the wider Hopi and Tewa networks, honors her life, her dedication, and her enduring legacy.
One wrote:
“She was loved by many and we express our deepest condolences to the Lomavaya family, her friends and community who will always remember her as a true friend, advocate and community leader.”
HTWCEA
Another added:
“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences during this time. My prayers are with the family. Lisa Lomavaya was a remarkable woman who carried herself with immense passion for her family and her Hopi and Tewa community!! I am truly grateful to have witnessed her dedication and the love she shared with everyone around her! Her spirit will always be remembered and the love she shared with everyone!! Thank you Lisa for sharing yourself with us all!!! ✊🏾🙏🏾❤️”
Waylon Pee Pahona
Lisa Lomavaya’s spirit and contributions will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Furthermore, the Arizona community has also created a GoFundMe to ease the financial burden of Lisa’s family as they continue to navigate the loss and make arrangements for her funeral and memorial services.
Her family will soon provide details about Lisa Lomavaya’s funeral and memorial services.
