In Memory of Rebekah Lyas: A Legacy of Compassion and Leadership at Winning Ways

It is with profound sadness that we at Winning Ways Inc. reflect on the passing of our beloved board member, Rebekah Elizabeth Lyas, who left us on January 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Rebekah’s influence and spirit will continue to resonate with us forever.

Rebekah was born in Seoul, Korea, on September 5, 1979, and became a cherished Christmas gift to her parents when she arrived in America that December. Her life was characterized by a deep commitment to kindness and service from an early age.

After earning her master’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University, Rebekah dedicated her career to helping those in need, holding significant roles at Colombus House and Immacare, and most recently serving as the Executive Director at South Park Homeless Shelter. Her professional life was marked by unwavering dedication to aiding the most vulnerable.

Rebekah’s creativity shone through in her hobby of making her own greeting cards and her talent for organizing memorable events. Above all, she was a devoted wife to Benjamin Lyas, a cherished daughter, a spirited sister to Dale Briere and Danielle Ohlsen, and a loving mother to her daughters, Marie Elena and Ruby EmmaJane. Her son, James Edward, predeceased her but was always close to her heart.

At Winning Ways, Rebekah’s belief in our mission and her contributions were invaluable. She drove us forward with vision and empathy, inspiring us to pursue our work with renewed vigor.