Lisa Hackett Obituary: Beloved Chicago Educator, Wife, and Mother Passed Away at 58
CHICAGO, IL — April 10, 2025 — The city of Chicago is mourning the loss of Lisa M. Hackett (née Filipczak), a deeply cherished resident, lifelong educator, and devoted family woman who passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the age of 58. Lisa’s passing marks the end of a life dedicated to teaching, family, faith, and compassionate service to her community.
Born on November 28, 1966, Lisa was a proud daughter of the late Stanley and Margaret Filipczak. She grew up in Chicago with a strong foundation rooted in love, faith, and education. These values shaped the course of her life and became evident in the relationships she built and the generations she guided with kindness and dedication.
Lisa is remembered foremost as the loving wife of Brian Hackett and the proud, devoted mother of their three children: Katie, Maggie, and Danny Hackett. Her family was her heart, and she poured herself into her role as a mother with unwavering love and pride. She was also a beloved sister to David Filipczak and Laura (Gorge) Pitsoulakis, and a treasured sister-in-law to Mary Hackett, Jimmy (Mary) Hackett, Tom (Mary) Hackett, and Helen (Tony) Barker. Lisa’s large extended family, including aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, were a vital part of her world, and she made each of them feel seen, valued, and loved.
Professionally, Lisa dedicated her life to education and inspired generations of students throughout her career. She was a proud Catholic school and public school educator who served at St. Denis Catholic School from 1990 to 2001, Hurley Elementary School from 2001 to 2014, and Ashburn Community Elementary School from 2014 until her passing in 2025. Lisa was much more than a teacher—she was a mentor, role model, and lifelong advocate for children’s success and well-being.
Colleagues remember Lisa for her compassion, intellect, and a warm smile that could light up a room. Her legacy lives on through the countless students she taught, the fellow teachers she uplifted, and the families she served with grace and humility. Her work left an indelible mark on Chicago’s educational landscape, particularly within the Catholic and CPS systems.
Lisa’s faith was central to her life. As a devout Catholic, she found strength and peace in her beliefs, which were reflected in her acts of generosity, empathy, and service. Her spiritual commitment touched everyone she met and was a guiding force in her personal and professional life.
A public visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Curley Funeral Home, 6116 W. 111th St., Chicago Ridge. Funeral services will take place the following morning on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the funeral home, proceeding to St. Rita of Cascia Shrine Chapel, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago, for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Lisa will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Rush MD Anderson Cancer Center, supporting the continued fight against cancer and honoring Lisa’s courageous battle with the illness that ultimately claimed her life.
Lisa Hackett’s legacy is one of light, love, and selfless service. She will be remembered not only for the lives she changed through education, but also for the warmth she brought to every space she entered. Her memory will live on in her family, her students, and all who had the honor of knowing her.
Rest in peace, Lisa. Your legacy of love and learning will never be forgotten.
