Erisa Funada

January 10, 1986 - February 18, 2023

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Faith Church

5526 Indiana 26

Lafayette, IN 47905

Saturday 2/25, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Faith Church

5526 Indiana 26

Lafayette, IN 47905

Saturday 2/25, 4:00 pm

Erisa Funada, 37, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, February 18, 2023, after a six-month fight against cancer. She is survived by her husband, Naoto and their sons Toshiki and Subaru (of Lafayette, IN), and her father Koichi Joe Mita and her mother Nobuko Noney Mita (of Saitama, Japan). She was born on January 10, 1986, in Tokyo, Japan, the only daughter of Joe and Noney Mita. She received her undergraduate degree in biblical counseling from Maranatha Baptist University in Wisconsin, followed by an MA in biblical counseling from The Master’s University in California. She was an ACBC-certified counselor in 2013–2023.

She was raised in Saitama, a city 20 miles north of Tokyo, Japan. Growing up as a missionary kid in a land where Christians make up only 1% of the population, Erisa struggled to balance her public life and church life. She rebelled against her parents in her teenage years, but God kindly led her to receive biblical counseling at Faith Church in Lafayette, Indiana, when she was 15. At this time she put her trust in Jesus for salvation. In college she studied biblical counseling and received the call to be a missionary to Japan. She further pursued biblical counseling training through graduate-level education, the ACBC certification process, and a church internship.

When she met Naoto in 2014, they clicked with each other right away. Their personalities, their passion for the gospel and missions, their theology, and their musical abilities all aligned well. By God’s leading Erisa and Naoto married on September 6 that year. Soon after marriage, in order to be a well-equipped missionary, Naoto went back to school, first for his undergraduate degree, and then for a master’s degree in divinity. During this time, Erisa gave birth to Toshiki in April 2018.

In 2019, through Erisa’s influence, God led Naoto to transfer his school to Faith Bible Seminary in Lafayette, Indiana. Both Naoto and Erisa enjoyed their life and ministry there. God blessed them with another son, Subaru. While Naoto was in seminary, Erisa worked hard as a stay-at-home mom, raising two boys, researching and making plans as they anticipated missionary service.

Naoto and Erisa were appointed as missionaries from Faith Church to Japan in March 2022. They began their support raising in April, and by God’s grace, everything seemed to be going well. At the end of August, however, Erisa went to the ER for her intense abdominal pain. About a week later, she was diagnosed with stage-4 cancer. While she fought cancer with the hope that God would give healing so she could continue her missionary calling, she also began thinking more about God and contemplating heaven as her cancer progressed. She received much comfort from God’s love and His promises found in Scripture. Her health declined rapidly in January 2023, and she passed into heaven on February 18.

Erisa accomplished much in the 37 years of her life. She was a compassionate person who touched many lives by her love, wisdom, and joy. Her translation of two biblical counseling books (Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands by Paul Tripp and Caring for One Another by Ed Welch) into Japanese has helped thousands of Japanese Christians who are studying biblical counseling. She greatly influenced her husband Naoto’s life direction enabling his growth and impact as a minister.

Erisa’s memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 25 at 4:00 PM (visitation starts at 3:00 PM) at Faith Church East (5526 State Road 26 Lafayette, IN 47905). Memorial contributions can be made to Funada – Regular Support at Faith Global Missions of Lafayette, IN (faithlafayette.org/missions/directory/naoto-erisa-funada) or contact naotofunada@gmail.com for alternative ways.

Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.

Sandy

Jennifer Ro

Marissa Cook

Andre Taft

KEIKO SAWADA

Chiaki Kang

Eric & Tritia Lau

Kathy Shes

江口麻子

Faith Church

5526 Indiana 26

Lafayette, IN 47905

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Saturday 2/25, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

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Faith Church

5526 Indiana 26

Lafayette, IN 47905

Map

Saturday 2/25, 4:00 pm

Send Flowers & Gifts

See Condolences

Words cannot express.

How you modeled prayer as you would pray in the car before driving us to buy groceries and how you would pray at the grocery store too for the food/items/deals we would get, my time at Masters was a blessing because of your role model and wisdom and friendship. Thank you. Miss you. Praying for your family here on earth. Grieving your loss but comforted to know you are in heaven, no longer in pain, forever smiling that beautiful smile???

I knew Erisa while attending the Master’s College and was always encouraged by her bright, joyful heart. I have not had a chance to see her in all these years, reading her timeline since, there is an uncanny parallel with mine. My heart breaks for you as you mourn her loss and for the new normal you must adjust to. My heart breaks for her as she must have mourned the loss of leaving her young family behind, but rejoices with her as she worships our Savior face to face.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

In memory of Erisa Funada, Marissa Cook lit a candle

あのえりさちゃんの弾けるような笑顔と優しく温かな声で主のもとで賛美していると思います。天の御国で会えたらいっぱいおしゃべりしましょうネ。

Condolences & sending love. I remember the day you guys got married and both lives were changed for the better. The Love you built will never go away. God bless

お悔やみ申し上げます。エリサは観客になりました、天国でまた会おう。

My most blessed memory of Erisa was a conversation we had in the kitchen of the Old International House in Santa Clarita, CA. Her passion to serve the Lord was almost palpable. Her loving and giving ways were obvious to all as she stepped from being a single young woman to being a wonderful wife and mother with a continued passion to serve the Lord by serving others. Can’t wait to see her again in Glory where she is wrapped in the loving arms of her Savior and Lord!

In memory of Erisa Funada, KEIKO SAWADA lit a candle

Heartfelt condolences to Naoto, little Toshiki and Subaru and to Erisa's parents. We will keep praying for Funada family's healing ??? Kang family (Chiaki, Mari, Luca)

We praise God that Erisa is now free from earthly pain, but we are so very sorry for your loss ? Praying for your family during this time.

恵利紗ちゃん、2020年にFaith ChurchのBiblical Counseling Conferenceに参加した時、子供たちが恵利紗ちゃんと一緒に過ごせた時間をとても喜んでいました。あの時恵利紗ちゃんにもらった綺麗な石を、舞花は今も大切に宝物にしています。ありがとう。なおと君、今はまだなんていう言葉をかけてよいのか分かりません。主の大きな慰めがなおと君とお子さんたちの心をしっかりと包んでくれるように、みんなでお祈りしています。今は何も考えず、イエス様の腕の中でいっぱい泣いて、いっぱい休んでください。

I am so sorry for the loss of dear Erisa. I wish I could celebrate her life in person, but I send my love and prayers for the family from here in Virginia. I will never forget our nights of studying for our Biblical Counseling classes together while listening to Irish jig music and giggling, our Culver's dinners, our photo sessions on the streets of Watertown, or hearing her yell out "Sasah!" at me when I was being sassy. I look forward to reuniting with her in heaven someday.

My prayers and deepest condolences are with you, Naoto, and your children and family. May God comfort you with his love and understanding. ✝️

恵利紗さん、私たち家族はあなたに出会えたことを、深く神様に感謝しています。2017年初夏に初めて私の家にやって来て、あなたのピュアな笑顔を見てお話を聞いた時、すぐに私の家族を毎日手伝ってもらおうと決めました。アメリカに慣れない私たちは助けが必要でした。私は、神様があなたを私たちの元へ、連れてきて下さったのだと実感したのです。あなたはカリフォルニアを去った後も、ずっと私たちのことを気にかけて下さり、私たちはどんなに心強かったことか。恵利紗さんがくださった沢山の愛と、神様の教えを私たちはずっと忘れることはできません。あなたは今、天国で神様にお会いして喜んで歌っていらっしゃるのだと、私たちは想像し喜びます。光に満ちた平安の場所で、幸せに過ごしているのだと信じています。直人さんどうかお疲れが出ませんように、トシキくん、スバルくん、どうか神様を信じて強く生きてください。恵利紗さん、本当にありがとうございました。

Erisa a sweet loving wife , mom, friend and passionately serving and love God . She is always reaching out and serving others even in time of her sickness ,so blessed with her and Naoto how God is doing great and mighty things in your life .We are praying for you Naoto , Toshiki and Subaru and all your family . Bob , Mira and Kiana .

Erisa is my lovely precious friend. I am mournfully grieving Erisa, but at the same time I have hope and joy in my heart in knowing that Erisa is in heaven. Erisa is unforgettable and her memory will always stay with me. May God strengthen and bless Naoto, Toshiki and Joseph Subaru.

えりささん、イエス様との幸せであたたかな時間をすごしていますね。この世界で神様がえりささんを通して働いてくださったさまざまなことを覚え続けます。すばらしい女性であるえりささんに、ひとときのお別れを言わなければならないご家族の悲しみを覚えます。赤ちゃんの時から愛し続けたご両親、えりささんとひとつとなり主の栄光を現しながら歩まれたなおとさん、そしてとしきくん、すばるくん。みなさまが神様と共に必要なだけ悲しむ時間をもち、なぐさめられますようにお祈りしています。

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

恵利紗ちゃん、また会える日を楽しみにしています。

In memory of Erisa Funada, Eri Miura lit a candle

I am so grateful to have had a friendship with Erisa and fond memories. Erisa was so beautiful in heart with that lovely smile. She was so special to me and will remain in my heart forever.. Trust your beautiful memories of Erisa will bring comfort in time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Naoto and Family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you will be in our prayers. We were both very blessed by the influence the two of you in our life. May God grant you peace and comfort during this time. -Jeremy

In memory of Erisa Funada, Eri Miura lit a candle

N/A

恵利紗さん、言葉にならない悲しみでいっぱいです。2014年にAkihomeでお会いしてからはお会いできませんでしたが、お二人の素敵な笑顔、幸せそうな新婚生活の準備のお手伝いが、アメリカでできた事、今もしっかりと覚えています。まさかの知らせに、驚き、ただただ毎日ご家族皆様の気が休まる瞬間があればと思い続けていました。岩槻で直人さんが働かれていた時、あの時はありがとうございましたと、数年後にお礼を再び頂いたことも、恵利紗さんのお人柄をよく表していて、改めて懐かしく、悲しく思います。心よりお悔やみ申し上げます。

My deepest condolences. Peace and comfort as we wait to see each other again!

Erisa san, I will miss your beautiful smile and delightful voice. I was looking forward to seeing you in Saitama once you come back to Japan, but now I look forward to reuniting with you in heaven. I still cannot believe you are gone, but you will always be in our hearts. Love.

My deepest condolences to Naoto and their 2 sons.

I will miss you, your smile, your kindness, your goodness here in earth.

In memory of Erisa Funada, Linda Schwartz lit a candle

May God provides all your comfort and strength in your time of need.

Our deepest condolences to Naoto and the Mita's. Erisa was a very special person to those who met her. As believers we will see her once again in Heaven someday. May the God of rest, hope, and love be with you all.

How I remember this young lady as a little girl, playing around the BII house while I was at work and then going with her parents and us to Canadian Adventure! I know she is with our Lord and I’m praying for her dear family! Love you.

In memory of Erisa Funada, Tomomi Suzuki lit a candle

We will always remember Erisa’s joy, her smile, her wisdom, her humility, & her love for the Lord. She was truly a gem, & we can’t wait to see her again, shining brightly in heaven.

エリサ　こんなにも早く神様のところに行ってしまうとは思ってなかったよ・多分Jナイトで初めて会って、なんだかんだで都度何かと気にかけてくれた優しいエリサでした色々アレンジしてくれたり　お家探しを手伝ってくれたり　カレッジクリスマスに連れて行ってくれたり・成長遅かった私だけどいつも愛と勇気にに助けられました　今は天国を散歩してるかな・ありがとう　たくさん言えなかったけど　これからも　家族を皆を見守っていてくださいね

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

He prepared a special place for Erisa san in heaven. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. (Philippians 3:10-11)

えりささんと直人さんは本当に素晴らしいご夫婦でした。病気とその経過を知ったときは本当に信じられず、えりささんに最後にお会いしたのは10年以上も前ですがもう一度お会いできず本当に残念でなりません。ご冥福をお祈りします。

Erisa was kind, gentle, and passionate for the Lord and for the Japanese people to know Him. We were all blessed to know her and the Funada family.

I am thankful to know that Erisa is rejoicing by the side of our Lord. I will miss her here, until seeing her again in heaven. I love you all so much - Erisa, Naoto, and your sweet boys. You are in my heart and my prayers…

I thought I had died and gone to heaven when Erisa agreed to be my personal chef while living in my home in Lancaster, California, during her Biblical Counseling training at Valley Bible Church. What a gift she was to my life. I remember the joy it gave me to see her excitement when we had our very own garage sale. I will cherish the memories of the time she spent in my home. XOXO ?

God bless you all. I am also an MABC TMU grad. Her story was so encouraging to me personally. She is with her savior. Praise God for his grace to her and you all. 2 Cor 5:21

Our deepest condolences. Praying Erisa has peace and comfort and for Naoto and family

えりさちゃん、私と約1ヶ月ぐらいしか生年月日が変わらないと知ってもっと親近感。LAではあまり交わる機会がなかったけど、直人には正直もったいないと思うくらい(笑)真っ直ぐで、心がとってもピュアで笑顔が素敵だなと思ってました。ママ友として、もっと色々深く知り合ってみたかった。。。今はほんとにpain free worry freeな所にいるんだね。天国から直人と子供達の成長をずっと見守っていてね。

Erisa is such a special friend and sister in Christ. I am so thankful that I could spend a lot of time with her at our home, church and work. Missing you badly but see you, Erisa, in heaven.

In memory of Erisa Funada, Camden Ritchie lit a candle

We don't know what to say! We've know Erisa's family since 2014 or before when Joe and Noney have stayed in our home for the Biblical Counselling Training Conference. When Erisa came to the States and went to Faith, they came to our home for Thanksgiving with my parents. We've had many opportunities to visit with Joe and Noney and when Naoto and Erisa decided they needed to transfer to Faith Bible Seminary, Joe and Noney wanted us to talk with them regarding this decision. Naoto and Erisa did indeed "have all their ducks in a row" and it certainly turned out to be the best choice. I work at the Arnett IU Hospital and Erisa sent me a text saying she was in the ER and I came to her room for a visit. I couldn't believe the diagnosis and the subsequent hospital stay and then visiting them at IU Health North in Carmel. Erisa always had a positive attitude and a smile on her face. Naoto was always by her side doing what he could for her comfort. Her last stay at Arnett when visiting, one could see she was in a quick state of decline. All anyone could do was to give it to the Lord, pray with them and for them. We we shocked when we received the test on the 18th that Erisa was at home with Jesus! God's plan is best and as humans, we can't comprehend all of this now and perhaps we never will. We pray that Naoto and the boys will cling to God and that they will continue to honor Him. We pray for Joe and Noney that they can come to grips with what has occurred here. We cry with you and may God wrap his ever loving arms of love and comfort around this precious family.

Praying for your dear family! Though we met briefly at the NCC it was obvious your devotion and love for the Lord. May he comfort and strengthen you and your family in the days ahead.

すごく、残念だし、悲しいです。でも、エリサさんが、癌との戦いの中でもキリストに希望をおいている姿やコミュニティの愛を見て、本当にキリストにある希望と恵みと、確かな愛を確信することができました。Naoto、何か必要があれば、言ってください。できることは、なんでも。主の慰めと、平安をお祈りしています。

So very saddened to hear of the passing of Erisa. I cannot imagine the deep grief that you ALL are enduring at this very difficult time. Praying that God will comfort you and remind you of His past blessings and assure of your hope for the future!

In memory of Erisa Funada, Billy Nakamura lit a candle

エリサちゃん　私は最近エリサちゃんがガンとたたかってることを知ったんだけど　こんなに早く天に召されてとても悲しいよ。でもエリサちゃんは主へ賛美してるんだよね今　私へたくさん通訳して聖書的カウンセリングを教えくれて本当にありがとう。いつか私も主のところへ行った時　一緒に賛美して神様を褒め称えようね

直人とご家族の皆様、こんなにも急にエリサさが主のもとに召されるとは・・・。皆様のことを思うと言葉が見つかりません。その中でもイエス様にある希望の内にいる直人とご家族を日々祈りに覚えています。直人が書いてくれたようにエリサは最善の場所、主のそばで心から賛美をささげているでしょうね。神様の愛と恵みが皆様に平安と慰めをもたらすことをお祈りいたします。エリサとの思い出と、彼女と育んだキリストにある家族の愛、そして神様の御座から流れる慰めのためにいのります。お祈りに覚えています。

えりさ、こんなに早くに天国に行っちゃうなんて。でも最期まで神様を賛美続けたえりさを友人として誇りに思います。なおと、本当に素晴らしい伴侶が与えられたね!これからの人生も神様がおおいに祝福し、導いてくださいますように!

Our prayers for your family’s peace and comfort at this time. We grieve with you but not as those without hope. We’re assured we will see her again one glorious day.

素敵な素敵なえりさちゃん♡ Jnight旅行でサンフランシスコで合ったの覚えてる？I remember that day so well because it was my first time I personally got to talk to you when I was in the car with. I remember being nervous because i didnt know what to talk about. But God was so sweet because with your beautiful smile and kind heart, we connected right away sharing about our experiences as a MK, PK and also a TCK. また、えりさちゃんといっぱい話したいことあるけど、それはまた天国で合う時にいっぱいcatch upしようね。直人とすばるくんとしきくんのことGVBCファミリーで出きることあったら手伝うから心配しないでね。

Athena and I will always cherish the time we spent together with Naoto, Erisa and the boys. Our church was blessed by Erisa’s ministry of music and testimony. Though we grieve her passing, yet we have hope we will see her again in glory. We love you Naoto, Toshiki and Subaru. Lamentations 3:32

Deepest condolences for your family. You are not alone in your grief. Scripture tells us the Lord is near the broken-hearted and saves crushed in spirit. (Psalm34:18)We as a community are here to mourn with you and care for you in whatever your family needs. We are praying for you.

In the short time that we got to know Erisa we couldn’t help but be captivated by her story and desire for others to know Christ. She will truly be missed.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.