Lorna Holbrook

It is with sad but appreciative hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Lorna Charlotte Holbrook, on June 7, 2023. Mom celebrated her 100th birthday on December 9, 2022, with 35 of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and family friends celebrating this milestone with her. She leaves behind her four children, 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren with warm memories and many stories of how smart she was, her incredible memory, intellect, sense of humour and keen interest in everything to do with her  family.

Lorna McNeil was born on Dec 9, 1922, in Moose Creek, Ontario, on the farm that had been in her family for generations. She was the youngest of 6 children. By 18, both her parents had passed, and she supported her working brothers while completing high school. She moved to Ottawa and worked in a bank before meeting and marrying Omar Holbrook in 1947. Together they raised their four children, Sharon (Bob), Richard (Jane), John (Anne) and Debbie (Emil), guiding them with love, humour and rules, all while modelling a strong work ethic and love of family.

Lorna supported Omar for 13 years after he suffered a stroke. After he passed in 2001, she carried on in her strong independent way, pursuing activities she enjoyed. She volunteered, played cards and games, curled and travelled with her many friends. And of course, she read incessantly. She was always there for her family and friends, even helping neighbours with their tax returns until she was well into her 90’s!

The family is very grateful for the compassionate care from the “A” team at Gary J Armstrong and for our sister Debbie who was Mom’s collaborator, supporter, advocate and best friend for many years.

We invite friends, family, and all those whose lives were touched by Lorna to join us in a celebration of her life at the Westboro Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 403 Richmond Road, Ottawa (at Roosevelt) on Monday June 12th. Visitation will start at 12 noon followed by a service in the chapel at 1 p.m.  Burial to take place at St. Johns Anglican Cemetery, South March. We will come together to honor her memory, share stories, and remember the remarkable woman who inspired us and blessed our lives for so many years.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Lorna’s honor to Heart & Stroke Foundation.