Lorena McDonald

Lori left this world peacefully on July 30, 2026. She lived her life of 99 years as a lady in every sense of the word, and spent every day trying to make the world a better place.

She grew up in the Delhi area of California, on a ranch with her parents and sister, Dot. Her dad died when she was 13, and the family sold the ranch shortly after. They moved to Modesto. She married her husband, Bill, in 1947. He went to California Polytechnic State University, where he became an engineer. A career with General Electric afforded Lori and Bill many opportunities to travel during their marriage. They were true "rock hounds" and made jewelry with many of the gems they found. They had a son Bill Jr. in 1952, and called several places home as he grew up. He and his wife, Sheila, lived much of their married life in New York state.

Lori and Bill were pioneers in the Hi River Country community, moving into their home in 1988, Unfortunately Bill died in 1990. Lori was a Board Member during Hi River's early years and part of creating the newsletter that was mailed out many years ago. Her legacy will live forever in the Preserve that honors her name. It will be home to the birds and animals on the lot which she originally purchased as a place for them to live.

Their neighbor, Howard Watkins, was Bill 's friend, and taught him to trout fish. After Bill's death, Lori and Howard's friendship grew. She "adopted" Howard's family of three children and their families, especially his eight grandchildren, being the only "grandmother" they ever really knew. She has enjoyed watching nine "great grandchildren" come into her life. She and Howard traveled the world together. Their commitment to each other was a blessing in their golden years.

She loved animals, especially wild birds, making a habitat for them in her yard. Her other great love was her Corgi, Molly, who kept her company for many years.

Lori was a member of Hiawassee United Methodist Church, where she was active in many ministries. She served as a "Shepherd" for many years, and relished helping others when she could.

Her caregivers have been with Lori for the past seven years. Their care has been much of the reason for her long life. The family will forever be grateful for their love and devotion.

Lori is survived by a niece and nephew in California and their sister in Colorado.

A memorial service is being planned in the future in Hiawassee.