Obituary of Lori Lee Murray-Hawkins

It is with profound sadness that the family of Lori Murray-Hawkins announce her passing on March 2, 2023.  She now rejoices within the warm embrace of her Lord:  “It is well with my soul”. 

Born in Harvey Station, NB, on September 20, 1961, she was the daughter of the late Constance “Connie” Mills and Darrell Murray.   She will forever be remembered and loved by her children, Matthew Rozon (Emma) and Danielle Rozon (Chris Lee).  Lori knew the good Lord was truly majestic when she held each of her children for the first time – they were her world, she was very proud of the remarkable persons they have become, and she loved them with all her heart.  Lori is survived by her eldest sister Rochelle McLaughlin (Kim), her older brother and dear friend Todd Murray (Kim) and her younger sister and kindred spirit Tammy Slager; her husband, Darryl Hawkins; her stepchildren, Erica Krepskakies (Randy), Jamie Hawkins (Katie), Emily Belliveau (Jared); and her eight wonderful grandchildren that brought her much joy: Evelyn, Mila, Ivy, Nya, Roman, Zoe, Kayden and Cole.  Jayco, her beloved dog and constant source of amusement, will miss all of Lori’s pampering. 

Lori very much enjoyed her country home in Currieburg, NB, that she shared with her husband, Darryl.  Together they welcomed family and friends to enjoy acres of apple orchards, wooded trails, and sightings of local wildlife.  In the fall when the apples were ripe, Lori and her mother spent many Sundays baking apple pies.  Lori took tremendous joy sharing her love of baking with her daughter, Danielle, and daughter-in-law, Emma, thereby ensuring the family recipes of molasses cookies, doughnuts, cakes and pies could always be enjoyed.  Lori was also an avid knitter, especially when the Montreal Canadians were on TV.  

Lori had a strong life-time commitment to the University of New Brunswick (UNB).  She first stepped through the door of UNB’s Head Hall as an undergraduate student (BScCS Honours Class ’83) and returned in 1998 to enjoy twenty-five (25) years with Information Technology Services (ITS).  Known for her integrity, dedication, and tenacity, she has influenced some of the most challenging projects and data management issues throughout her career.  In 2017, Lori was awarded the UNB President’s Award in recognition of her outstanding service.   She will be deeply missed by her ITS family, university colleagues, and professional associates across Canada and the United States.

In recent years, Lori rediscovered her love for outdoor sports, travel, and adventures.  Driving her 2003 50^th anniversary black corvette convertible always put a smile on her face, particularly when she discovered the suspension smoothed out after 130 km/hr.   Lori’s mother drove the Vette until the age of 82, both surprised never to receive a speeding ticket – after all, who is going to give a ticket to a grey-haired lady zooming down the highway. 

Over the years, friends and family have been entertained, shocked and sometimes outright surprised at the antics Lori and her best friend Heather would get up to. Together they trekked the Canadian Rockies, kayaked the crocodile invested swamps of New Orleans, careened over the many mountain bike trails in New Brunswick, bushwhacked through woods and fields searching out waterfalls, and entered races where skill was required but desperately lacking in Lori and Heather’s case.  Lori’s friendship was unconditional and to have her trust was a gift.  Her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled.

A celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2023.  Donations in Lori’s memory can be made to Hospice House in Fredericton or to the Lori Murray Bursary at UNB https://donations.helpforcharities.com/unbdonation/?dept_id=lorimurray