Obituary: Lorna Pauline de Zilva – New Westminster, BC, Canada
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In Loving Memory of Lorna Pauline de Zilva (nee Layman)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lorna Pauline de Zilva, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend. Lorna peacefully departed from this earthly realm on October 20, 2023, at the age of 78, in New Westminster, BC.
Born on October 22, 1944, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Lorna’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and grace. She embodied the virtues of loyalty, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family and loved ones. Lorna’s gentle spirit and nurturing nature touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Lorna was a remarkable individual with a diverse set of talents and interests. As a dancer, self-taught musician and web designer, and as a business owner, she embodied creativity and entrepreneurship. Her cooking skills were unmatched, and her sociable nature allowed her to strike up conversations with anyone, making her the heart of social gatherings; however, it was her unwavering love for her family and friends that truly defined her. Lorna’s commitment to their well-being showcased the depth of her character, and she continued to be a loving and caring presence in their lives until the very end. Her life serves as an inspiring reminder of how one person’s passions and talents, driven by genuine love, can create a profound impact.
Lorna will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, Doug, who stood by her side through thick and thin, sharing a lifetime of cherished memories. She leaves behind her daughter Kaären and son-in-law Johnny, her son Alain and daughter-in-law Carrie, adopted son Suresh and his husband Kian, her brother Randolph Layman and many nieces and nephews. Lorna was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Roy and Edith Layman, her sister Colmar Nelson, and her brothers Tyronne and Spencer Layman.
A traditional church service will be held to honour Lorna Pauline de Zilva. Please join us on Friday, October 27, 2023, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Fatima Parish located at 315 Walker Street, Coquitlam, BC V3K 4C7. This gathering will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and acquaintances to pay their respects and share fond memories of a remarkable woman who touched countless lives.
A celebration of life celebrating Lorna will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Lorna’s memory to the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation. The compassionate care provided by the dedicated nurses, care-aides, and doctors of 5 South during Lorna’s final months will always be remembered and cherished. Contributions can be made online at https://tinyurl.com/lornadezilva.
Lorna Pauline de Zilva’s departure from this world has left a void that can never be filled. Her legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering devotion will forever live on in the hearts of those she loved and inspired. May her soul find eternal peace and may we find solace in the precious memories she leaves behind.
Douglas de Zilva
Fazli Sameer
“you can’t wait till life isn’t hard anymore to be happy” [Jane aka Nightbirde on AGT 2021]
