Lori Lazo-Gibbs

Lori Lazo-Gibbs, 55, of Hendersonville, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic accident on July 1, 2024.

Born and raised in Florida, Lori's journey was one with dedication, compassion and success. Lori's passion for interior design shone brightly as she graduated with honors from The University of Florida, College of Architecture. Lori's commitment to her craft led her to a distinguished career spanning over 20 years with Metro Nashville General Services. Lori was responsible for multimillion dollar contracts needed for the interior design, planning and ordering of furniture and textiles necessary for countless designs and reconfigurations of Metro office spaces. Her portfolio of accomplishments touched nearly every department of Metro and required her to work with many contractors and vendors as she managed projects to completion. Lori's projects included the Metro 911 Center, MSCA Attendance Center, Permanent Supportive Housing Community for the Homeless, The Family Safety Center, the Historic Metro Courthouse, and many other projects that supported and improved the Nashville community. 

Lori's vibrant personality was a beacon of light to those around her. Kind, intelligent, and dedicated she touched the lives of many with her generosity and caring spirit. Her life-long love for cats was evident in her affection for her beloved, special needs kitty, "Gabby", while her fondness for nature and for flowering plants and trees reflected her nurturing spirit. Alongside her husband Eric, Lori planted over 100 trees and shrubs at their home - a symbol of growth and vitality that mirrored their love. Lori loved the outdoors and traveling. As a young woman, Lori traveled Europe, including Switzerland, Germany and Moscow. Following college, and being fiercely independent, self reliant and confident in her abilities. Lori embarked on a solo hiking trip to visit the greatest U.S. National Parks. Over several weeks, she would primitively camp, hike and explore many scenic places, all by herself. Lori was also very committed to family and was our family historian. She loved visiting her extended Florida family of aunts, uncles and cousins, each December for the annual family reunion. Another favorite family gathering was the annual trips where she and Eric would meet up with her mother, Carolyn (deceased 2022), brother & sister in law, John & Jeanne, nieces Haley and Rese, and lifelong friend and "adopted" brother, Brent, along with his wife Michelle, daughter Victoria, son in law Tim and their son Jack. Lori was so excited for the trip this November, where she would be meeting baby Henry for the first time. One of the happiest moments in Lori's life was her wedding day to Eric. Their bond was a testament to true love and companionship as they traveled and planned life's journey together. As a proud graduate of the University of Florida, she remained deeply connected to her alma mater and also cherished her time spent in the vibrant city of Nashville since graduating. Lori was a faithful Christian and had the highest regard for family and friendships.

In this time of profound loss, Lori is survived by her loving husband, Eric Gibbs of Hendersonville; her brother, John Lazo of Summerfield, FL; sister-in-law, Jeanne Lazo; and nieces, Haley Lazo and Rese Lazo. Lori is preceded in death by her mother, Carolyn Lazo and her father, John Lazo III, and Grandparents, Earl & Pearl Batts, Jennie (Keyser) & Robert Rudolph and John Lazo Jr & Virginia.

The memory of Lori will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy as a talented designer, partner, and cherished friend will continue to inspire generations to come.

Services to commemorate Lori's remarkable life will be held at Sumner Funeral & Cremation Lakeside in Hendersonville on August 3, 2024. A visitation will take place from 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life ceremony at 1:00 PM. There will be a second celebration in Florida on August 31, 2024, at the Ocala Elks Lodge, from 11:00 AM -1:00 PM. The spirit of Lori's kindness and creativity will undoubtedly live on through those who gather to honor and remember the beautiful soul she was.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Lori’s name may be made to the Nashville Family Safety Center, St Jude Children’s Hospital, or Endtime Ministries by visiting the links listed below. Gifts of Love will also be accepted by the family for the special needs care of “Gabby". Any of these would be appreciated.

 https://ofs.nashville.gov/

 https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now

 https://www.endtime.com/

 Arrangements Entrusted to: Sumner Funeral & Cremation Lakeside, Hendersonville (615) 822-4442 www.sumnerfuneral.com