Lisa McGahey Lefebvre

Lisa McGahey Lefebvre, born Sept. 21, 1967, died May 21, 2025, at her home in Spartanburg. She was surrounded by her husband, Dr. John Lefebvre; their sons, Alex and Max; and her sister, Linda McGahey DeHaven. Lisa was diagnosed with cancer in December 2023, and prayed, adapted and fought for 17 months. She continued her work as director of employee wellness and medical services at Wofford College until almost the end.

Lisa joined the Wofford community in 2011. Before that, she served as director of health services at Converse University from 2001 to 2011. Lisa earned a BSN from Clemson University and was working at the Duke University Medical Center when she met John Lefebvre, who was a doctoral student at Duke. They fell in love and became partners, parents and adventure companions who loved to travel and spend time with friends.

Lisa also worked as a nurse at AnMed, Spartanburg Regional Medical Center and for the American Red Cross. Her varied professional experiences made her an excellent communicator, organizer and event planner as well as a no-nonsense but compassionate healthcare provider.

In her role at Wofford, she pioneered and managed the Employee Wellness Program and spearheaded many of the college’s wellness initiatives, including a campaign to make Wofford a tobacco-free campus. She promoted healthy relationships and raised student awareness for the dangers of substance abuse and unhealthy habits. She regularly brought therapy dogs and the Blood Mobile to campus and increased the availability of immunizations. Wofford students had weekly opportunities to gather with their peers, create and destress thanks to Lisa. Faculty and staff now have healthier hearts after participating in walking challenges and yoga classes initiated by Lisa.

Her work during COVID-19 was recognized in the Old Gold and Black student newspaper and by the Southern Conference when they named her to the 2020 SoCon Faculty and Staff Team. In 2024, she was named Campus Union Staff Member of the Year.

Lisa had a reputation for supporting students in all areas of college life. When John was hired at Wofford, they decided to purchase a house in Spartanburg so they could immerse themselves in the life of the college, far beyond what was required by their employment. The Wofford volleyball team gave Lisa a 2024 championship ring for her support.

Lisa was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg.

In addition to her husband, sons and sister, Lisa is survived by her parents, Kent and Martha McGahey of Anderson, South Carolina, as well as her brothers, Steve and Jon McGahey, and their families.

A celebration of her life will be Friday, June 13 at 2:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church Spartanburg, 393 E Main Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302.