Alyssa Sharon McDonnell

March 15, 2025

Alyssa Sharon McDonnell, beloved daughter, companion, sister, mother and friend, passed away on March 15, 2025, at Geisinger Community Medical Center following a determined battle with cancer. Born July 14, 1985, in Culver City, California, to Patrick McDonnell and the late Lisa Katzman, Alyssa brought warmth and joy to everyone who knew her.

Alyssa was a breath of fresh ocean air in NEPA, where she graduated from Dunmore High School in 2003. She found her true calling as an exceptional bartender who was responsible for many great nights full of laughter and storytelling with loyal patrons who adored her at Russell's, and years earlier, Whistles. Alyssa had a unique charm that allowed her to get through to anyone; she had an unmatched ability to forge lasting friendships with patrons and coworkers alike. Above all, Alyssa was a devoted mother to her cherished daughter, Lucy Anne Gavern, who she raised to be cool, kind, creative and resilient. She shared the gifts of her natural athleticism and patient but competitive sportsmanship when she volunteered as coach of Lucy's soccer team. Alyssa was a nurturer who enjoyed taking her time to prepare thoughtfully crafted home cooked meals for the people she loved and she always made sure to ask about your day or offer advice whenever she sensed support was needed. Her life was defined by the way she made people feel better about themselves, and her legacy is the lasting impression she left thanks to her sparkling personality. Alyssa was treasured by so many and her spirit lives on in those touched by her kindness, but especially in her daughter, who like her mother, is a glowing light and ray of hope through the profound sadness of our loss.

In addition to her daughter, Alyssa is also survived by her devoted longtime partner, Mike Gavern; her loving sister, Whitney McDonnell; her brothers Ryan and Patrick Ian "Petey" McDonnell; nieces Alexis and Caitlyn McDonnell; sister-in-law Lisa Miller; and aunts, cousins and extended family who will miss her terribly.

A blessing service will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Vanston and James Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. Her family invites all who knew and loved Alyssa to join them in celebrating her life by filling the room with joyful memories and the world with more compassion and unconditional love.

Alyssa wasn't just a vibe, she was a vibration. She was exciting and fun and hilarious and just plain wonderful. We're all better for having had her to learn from and enjoy life with. To offer condolences or to leave a tribute to Alyssa, please visit www.vanstonandjames.com.