Lisa Rau, Silver Dollar City PR Director, Remembered Following Her Passing in Branson

Former KY3 News anchor and longtime Silver Dollar City public relations director, Lisa Rau, died on Thursday at the age of 64. Rau, widely respected across the Ozarks for nearly four decades, is being remembered for pioneering journalism, influential public relations leadership, and a lasting commitment to community storytelling.

Rau began her broadcast career at KY3 in 1984, initially working as a weather forecaster before moving into field reporting. Her investigative reporting helped set her apart early, including a widely discussed series focused on environmental and regulatory questions involving chicken farms in the Ozarks. Over time, she became a familiar and trusted KY3 News anchor, known for steady professionalism, clear delivery, and dedication to local reporting.

In 1989, Rau’s professional path expanded when Silver Dollar City co-founder Pete Herschend recruited her to lead the theme park’s public relations work. Over the next three decades, she emerged as one of the most influential communications leaders in Branson tourism. Rau helped guide the park through significant expansions, major ride launches that drew national and international attention, and high-profile events that strengthened the region’s image. Colleagues often credited her with a rare combination of creativity, credibility, and a consistent ability to highlight the culture and character of the Ozarks.

Silver Dollar City released a statement honoring her contributions:

“Lisa was a member of our work family for more than three decades before retiring in 2023. Her passion for telling the stories of our special City and the Ozarks was unparalleled. As our PR Director, she built a legacy of theme park public relations through historic ride launches, grand openings, and ‘stunts with integrity.’ She was a tireless champion of our culture along the way. Her impact will live on in the hearts of our Citizens.”

After her time with Silver Dollar City, Rau served as communications director for the City of Branson during 2023 and 2024, continuing her work in public service and community messaging.

Her passing is being felt deeply across regional journalism and tourism communications, where she is remembered for leadership, mentorship, and years of service that helped shape the Ozarks’ media and public-facing identity.