Our First Lady was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, where she grew up as a member of Bethel AME before later joining St. Paul AME Church on Metropolitan Street in Dallas. Inspired by her mother, she was introduced early to missionary work—serving the homeless, distributing food and clothing, and visiting the sick and shut-in—which instilled in her a lifelong passion for helping others.

As adults, both Pastor and First Lady attended the same church. He served as a Steward before being called into the ministry, and she served as a Trustee. It was there that his mother introduced them, sharing that her son wanted to meet her. After ten years of dating, they became engaged—proving once again that mothers truly know best. When Lori shared the happy news with her own mother, she tenderly responded with words Lori would never forget: “Now I can rest.”

They were married Thanksgiving weekend in November 2001. During that time, Lori was also caring for her mother. Unfortunately, after suffering a massive stroke two weeks after the wedding, her mother lost her battle with ovarian cancer and passed away on Christmas Day.

Shortly after the couple moved to Virginia, Sister Lori began to find her voice in ministry. Content to serve quietly in the background, she faithfully supported the work of God without drawing much attention to herself. During the sermon, the pastor would often call on members randomly during service to take on different duties.

Though she initially felt uncomfortable being put on the spot, she soon realized her former pastor in Dallas had taught them to serve wherever there was a need.

Truly, the seed of becoming a First Lady was planted from the very beginning, for God had already ordained the plans for her life. Today, this phenomenal woman of God gracefully balances family, work, church, and continuing education by setting clear goals and dedicating time to each—walking faithfully in the purpose God has called her to fulfill.

At her previous church before joining Turners Chapel, our First Lady faithfully served in multiple roles. She managed the church website and Facebook page while also selecting the songs played during service. Pastor Montgomery later appointed her as the Christian Education Leader and President of the local Missionary Society. In addition to her local responsibilities, she also served at the conference level, at one point holding three positions at once: WMS Conference 2nd Vice President, Conference President of the Ministers' Spouses Organization, and Christian Debutante Master Commissioner for the WNCC.

Turners Chapel has given our First Lady the opportunity to slow down and step back from carrying so many responsibilities. With an organized structure in place and dedicated members fulfilling various roles, she has been able to focus on long-overdue self-care and personal goals. She attends Livingstone College, majoring in Religious Studies, where she currently has a 6.0 GPA, and has been recognized as a Gold Medalist, Presidential Merit Scholar, and member of the honor roll.

In her free time, she enjoys practicing Tai Chi—a slow, graceful exercise she finds both relaxing and energizing. She also treasures quiet moments in her recliner, reading and writing letters.

Her passion for reading is reflected in the shelves of her private library, where multiple bookcases are filled with treasured books. Another source of joy for her is gardening. She planted a rose garden in memory of her beloved mother-in-law, a place that brings her peace and beauty.

Our First Lady’s love language is mentoring young girls. She helps build self-confidence, foster a positive mindset, and encourage personal growth and well-being. This faith-filled woman has a calm, approachable spirit and always makes time to provide emotional support and words of encouragement to those around her. She is blessed with one daughter, Nicole, who is a pastor alongside her husband, and together they are raising two children.

Today, our First Lady continues to honor her mother’s legacy by walking faithfully in her calling, serving with compassion and a heart for ministry, and leading Turners Chapel with grace and dedication.