Jennifer's obituary
Jennifer "Jen" Lyman, a beloved pillar in the Alexandria theater community, passed away on April 19, 2023. Born on October 2, 1969, Jennifer was known for her generosity, and her loving and welcoming spirit.
Jennifer wants you to remember her as being a "Nerdfighter", Feminist, Reader, Political Activist, Singer, Cook, Board Game Fan, and TV Devotee. She was most proud of being a Theatre Director, Producer, Stage Manager, Lighting Designer, and Judge.
Throughout her life, Jennifer's guiding principle was "Don't forget to be awesome!" This approach to life was the foundation for many of her achievements as a theater Director and Producer. Jennifer's passion for local theater became the driving force behind an extensive list of plays at The Little Theater of Alexandria. Her dedication and talents were recognized with numerous accolades and awards.
Jennifer's strong bond with family was evident in her close relationship with her nephew, Nicholas Vanderbilt and her Goddaughters, Meggie and Linnea Webster. Family members who survive Jennifer, are her parents, Howard and Willow Jeane Lyman, sisters, Molly Vanderbilt, Jeanine Heider, Laura Heine, and brother, Michael Wilkins. They have always admired their sister's ability to bring people together and create lasting memories.
Jennifer's warmth, genuine love, and charitable giving to others touched the hearts of all who knew her. She frequently called on friends experiencing illness or hardship. Helping others in the community was a daily part of her life. She made regular donations to the Food Pantry to ensure those in need didn't go hungry. During the pandemic she became a champion for service providers on the front lines and would generously tip as her way of helping them out.
Jennifer's legacy will be fondly remembered by her coworkers, and the countless individuals she impacted through her work with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Her enthusiasm for life, inexhaustible kindness, and unyielding support of others are qualities that will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Jennifer "Jen" Lyman will be dearly missed, but her "Don't forget to be awesome!" spirit will live on in the memories of all who loved her.