Wendy M. Lista

Wendy Lista, 61, passed away at home on September 7, 2026, surrounded by her family, after a long battle with cancer.

She is survived by her husband Bill; her children Jacob and Natalie; her siblings, Lindy Winters, Warren Matthews, Melissa (Jim) Matthews, and Marcie Matthews; her aunt, Sandy (Bob) Strohl; and her many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, Jack and Anita (Heisterkamp) Matthews.

Wendy was born and raised in Henrietta, NY and earned her degree in journalism from SUNY Brockport in 1987. She was a talented photographer and artist, often focusing on subjects that others might overlook. Her ability to see the charm in things that people might find unimportant or strange is mirrored in the grace, generosity, and empathy with which she treated the people and animals around her. She was a parent not only to her own children but was deeply influential to and loved by many of their friends and was a trusted favorite among the children and teens with whom she worked. After two decades of service, she retired from the Pittsford School District counseling department in 2025.

Wendy was always moved to help anyone in pain; she saw the best in others, and never turned away someone in need of love or care. Wendy will be remembered for how she made people feel: welcomed, understood, protected, and loved.

Family and friends will gather on Tuesday, September 22nd between 3 PM and 6 PM at the Buckland Lodge in Brighton NY. Spoken memorials will be presented at 4:30 PM.