Obituary of Lorri deJong

It is with broken hearts that the family announce the passing of Lorri deJong on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at the age of 65. Born on May 23, 1960, in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, she was the daughter of Elaine (Hilliard) Robinson and the late Tom Robinson.

In addition to her mother, Elaine, Lorri leaves behind her siblings, Frank Robinson (Rose), Nancy Tower (Stewart), Wayne Robinson (Terri), and Harold Robinson. Also survived by her nephews, Dale (Amanda), Tommy, Riley, and Justin; nieces, Hailey and Trinity; grand nephews and niece, Owen, Caleb, Logan, Sofi, and Tucker; special aunt, Leslie Hilliard, and special uncle, Richard Robinson; brother-in-law, Tony Quackenbush; as well as a large circle of family, close friends and colleagues. Lorri was predeceased by her father, Tom; sister, Vicki Quackenbush; brother, John Robinson.

As the oldest of 7 children, Lorri was destined to be a leader and protector. From her youngest years, Lorri assumed the proud role of big sister and cheerleader to those who needed encouragement and gift giver of tiny comforts. Her family was her GREATEST JOY.

In her youth, Lorri was a Brownie, a Girl Guide, participated in gymnastics and was proud to be a member of the Safety Patrol Team.

During her school years, learning came easy to Lorri, especially languages including French, Latin and German. Lorri could write a poem in a matter of minutes. She was a member of the school band and became a skilled and award-winning flute player. Music has always been a very big part of Lorri’s life. The genre range was broad.

Lorri graduated from the Cape Breton Business College and also achieved her Human Service Counselor certificate and Youth Care Counselor certificate at NBCC.

For the remaining 42 years until present, Lorri worked for Oromocto Community Residences Inc. She provided both direct care while the majority of her years bore the title of Executive Director. Lorri was seen by residents, employees and colleagues alike as professional, fair, honest, friendly and compassionate. Lorri ferociously fought to achieve dignity and respect for all while never compromising her integrity. Lorri saw the best in everyone and poured herself into defending them.

Lorri continued to promote her belief in equality and acceptance of everyone in all walks of life by serving in various executive positions with NBARA, most recently as the Provincial Coordinator.

Among Lorri’s greatest gifts was her generosity to others. If you needed it, she gave it… her time, her money her energy, her all…. she simply gave.

Lorri attributed her successes in life to her belief in God. She held fast to his promises and her faith was unwavering.

Visitation will be held at Oromocto Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 29, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. The funeral service will take place at Oromocto Baptist Church on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 1 pm. A live stream of Lorri's service will be available to view at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@OBChurchYT/streams. For those who wish, donations in Lorri’s memory may be made to Oromocto Community Residences Inc., Oromocto Baptist Church or any local homeless shelter.