Lori Ann Nelson

Lori Nelson, 65, passed away on July 3, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. Born on September 28, 1960 in Dell Rapids, South Dakota, Lori lived a life marked by resilience, faith, and compassion.

Lori graduated from high school in Dell Rapids in 1978 and pursued her passion for creativity by attending Design Floral School in Denver, Colorado. Her career was as diverse as it was accomplished. She began as a floral designer and later as a manager at a Wendy's Restaurant in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

After relocating to Phoenix, Arizona she held managerial roles in the area including time with Waste Management. This is where her career with FedEx began, leading her to Florida, Nevada, and Ohio. Lori also excelled as a professional and hobby photographer. Her dedication to her work reflected her strong sense of responsibility and determination.

A woman of many talents and interests, In addition to photography Lori had a deep love for gardening. She was quite adventurous early on in her life. She also enjoyed sports; she played basketball during her youth and remained an avid follower of the Orlando Magic. Her hobbies brought her joy and allowed her to connect with others through shared passions.

Lori’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She loved Jesus from a young age and was baptized at Trent Baptist Church during her youth. Even when faced with chronic illness—a challenge she endured since childhood—her faith never wavered. Lori found solace in Scripture, drawing strength from verses such as Psalm 38:21-22: “Lord come quickly,” I Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love suffers long and is kind…,” and II Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” These passages guided her life and inspired those around her.

Despite her own health struggles, Lori was deeply attuned to the needs of others. She was known for her giving nature and sensitivity to those who were ill or in need. When she wasn’t feeling well herself, she would often spend time in rehabilitation facilities where she became an advocate for others, offering prayers and support to those she met. Her selflessness left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Lori is survived by her mother, Barbara Nelson; sister Renee Rokeh (Greg); brothers Keith Nelson (Patty) and Kent Nelson (Kim); and stepdaughter McKenna Coyle. She was predeceased by her father Wendell Nelson; grandparents Ernest and Eva Nelson; and Gus and Ellen Ann Madeztke.

Lori’s memory will live on through the lives she touched with her kindness, faith, and unwavering love for others. May those who knew her find comfort in remembering the light she brought into the world.