Lisa Lynn Dorman Troutman passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, at the age of 63, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, following a courageous and lengthy battle with dementia. While the disease gradually took away many of her memories, it never diminished the love she inspired in those fortunate enough to know her.

Born on March 12, 1963, in Fayetteville, Lisa was the beloved daughter of Willie P. Dorman and Judy Dorman. She spent most of her life in the community that shaped her and that she, in turn, helped shape through a lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to children and families.

Even as a little girl, it was obvious that teaching was her calling. Following in her mother's footsteps, Lisa would gather her younger siblings and happily hold "school" in the family home, assigning lessons and making sure everyone participated. What began as childhood play grew into a lifelong mission to help children discover their potential.

Lisa graduated from Pine Forest High School in 1981, where she was a cheerleader, active in Student Government, and known for her infectious smile, warm heart, and vibrant personality. She continued her education at Peace College before earning her Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, her Master of Arts in Education from Fayetteville State University, and ultimately her Doctorate of Education from Wingate University. She believed education was a lifelong pursuit—not only for her students, but for herself.

Her career in education was extraordinary. Lisa served as principal at Glendale Acres Elementary School, Vanstory Hills Elementary School, and Raleigh Road Elementary School before becoming Director of Elementary Education for Cumberland County Schools and later Associate Superintendent for Elementary Schools in Moore County. In her very first year as a principal, she was named Cumberland County Principal of the Year, an honor that reflected not only her exceptional leadership but the respect and admiration she earned from teachers, parents, and students alike.

Titles and awards, however, never defined Lisa. She was happiest walking the halls of a school, greeting children by name, encouraging teachers, and reminding everyone that every child deserved to be seen, challenged, and loved. She believed education could change lives because she witnessed it every day.

As the wife of a career Army Special Forces officer, Lisa also understood sacrifice in ways few could appreciate. Deployments, long separations, missed holidays, and uncertain days became part of family life. Through every challenge, she remained a steady source of strength, creating a loving home while also becoming a fierce advocate for military children and families. Their unique struggles were deeply personal to her, and she worked tirelessly to ensure military children felt supported wherever they attended school.

Service was woven into every part of Lisa's life. She was an active member of the Junior League of Fayetteville and the Fayetteville Women's Garden Club, served as Youth Director at Highland Presbyterian Church, and faithfully supported military families with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Special Operations Command South, and U.S. Army Special Operations Command. She gave her time generously, never seeking recognition, simply believing that helping others was what you did.

For all she accomplished professionally, nothing compared to the joy she found in being a mother. She was a phenomenal stepmother to David, relishing in the roles he assumed as a big brother, always present and mentoring from an early age. Her greatest blessing was her son, Andrew, lovingly known as her "twin." Their matching red hair, quick wit, gift for conversation, and joyful spirits made their bond unmistakable. She celebrated every milestone in his life with pride and loved him with a fierce, unconditional love that words can scarcely describe. Being Andrew's mother was the role she treasured above all others.

Lisa is survived by her devoted husband, LTC (Ret.) David Troutman; her beloved son, Andrew Tyler Troutman; her stepson, David Troutman II; her father, Willie P. Dorman; her sister, Jennifer Dorman Michaelson, and husband Marc Michaelson of Cincinnati, Ohio; along with many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Judy Dorman, whose example inspired Lisa's love of education, and by her brother, W.P. Dorman III.

The family offers its deepest gratitude to the many friends who never stopped showing up for Lisa throughout her battle with dementia. Dr. Kathy Kennedy, Connie Floyd, Odette Arnold, Dr. Amber Rach, Ann Scarborough McClung, Karen Libby, Vicki Corrazoli, Dr. Breeden Blackwell, and Cathy Blackwell each provided unwavering friendship, compassion, and love during one of life's most difficult journeys. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to the pastors, members, and staff of Highland Presbyterian Church for surrounding Lisa and her family with steadfast prayers, encouragement, and grace.

A private family service will be held at a later date, when Lisa's ashes will be laid to rest in the columbarium at Highland Presbyterian Church.

Lisa leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured by degrees earned, titles held, or awards received. Her legacy lives in the thousands of children whose lives she touched, the educators she mentored, the military families she encouraged, and the countless friends who experienced her kindness, optimism, and generous heart. She possessed an infectious laugh, an unmistakable joy for life, and a remarkable ability to make others feel valued.

Though dementia gradually stole many precious memories, it never erased the extraordinary woman Lisa was. She will be remembered not for the illness that marked her final years, but for the beautiful life she lived, the love she freely gave, and the countless lives she made better simply because she was part of them.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you remember Lisa Dorman Troutman, Ed.D., with a memorial gift to Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast North Carolina. Through your generosity, Lisa's spirit of kindness and compassion will continue to make a difference in the lives of others. 

Online condolences may be sent to www.jerniganwarren.com

Services provided by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28301