In memoriam to Lorrie Vezineau…[1]

           Lorrie died this past month after a massive stroke. Several members who spoke to her only days before her passing were indeed shocked for they reported how happy she was in her new home in Lehigh Acres. Lorrie was too important to All Faiths for us to let her death pass without noting some of the uniqueness of who she was.

          When she first came to All Faiths, we immediately were aware of her history of churchmanship. She had served several churches in leadership positions. One might suggest that her profile of leadership and service was reflected in one of her daughter’s entering the ordained ministry, and presently serving a United Church of Christ congregation in Pennsylvania.

          We also will remember the pain and struggle Lorrie shared with us in Joys & Concerns on a regular basis, as her beloved granddaughter Helen fought a valiant fight – replete with transplants and radical treatments – and won until she reached her early 20s.

          Lorrie was a large woman, both physically and in spirit. She had a keen sense of humor, and a cut-to-the chase intellect that brooked little that was not genuine, nor authentic.

          And as always, there were parts of her, many of us did not really know. For example, she had served as the laboratory manager at Newport Hospital; held the position of Director of External Affairs at Johnson and Wales University, 1987-1991; owned and operated Quiche LaReine’s Gourmet Catering, 1986-2000; and was the Director of Development at Pawtucket Day Nursery, 1993-2000. She also completed the Master Gardener Program at the University of Rhode Island in 2004.

She was a member of two Unitarian Universalist congregations in Rhode Island – Channing Memorial in Newport and Bell Street Chapel in Providence. She was very outspoken that All Faiths should join the Unitarian Universalist Association.

          Two weeks from today, we will begin our Summer Services. Lorrie served two years ago on the Task Force that created that summer’s programming. In doing so, she was a constant source of insight and sensitivities…that bright mind and keen intellect that we like to think is synonymous with being liberal religious.

I invite you during our Unitarian Communion following services to share with each other your recollections of this good and exceptional woman. Please join me now in a moment of silence in remembering Lorrie Vezineau.

Amen and blessed be.