SGT Lori Chinnis, ARMY (Ret)

Lori Ann Chinnis, age 43, passed away on February 7, 2026.

Born on March 25, 1982, in Toledo, OH, Lori later made her home in Clarksville, TN. Lori’s life was a testament to love, strength, and unwavering devotion, qualities shone from her heart of gold.

Lori proudly served her country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Sergeant before her honorable retirement in September 2011. Her military service reflected not only her strength and discipline, but also her deep sense of responsibility and care for others; traits that defined her both in uniform and in every aspect of her life.

Above all, Lori was a devoted mother, fiercely protective and endlessly loving toward her children. She often described herself as the “Mama Bear,” putting her family first and loving them with a passion that knew no bounds. Her children: Jacob M. Chinnis Jr., Dominic A. Chinnis, and Brooklyn G. Chinnis were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Lori’s legacy of love continues through her daughter-in-law, Jillian G. Chinnis, and her treasured grandchildren, Jacob Chinnis III, Grayson R. Chinnis, and Weston J. Chinnis.

Lori shared a remarkable 24-year marriage with her beloved high school sweetheart and devoted husband, Jacob M. Chinnis Sr. Together, Lori and Jake built a beautiful life grounded in love, faith, and family. From their early days growing up side by side to facing life’s adventures hand in hand, their bond was one of extraordinary love and steadfast commitment. They supported each other’s dreams, raised their children, and created a home filled with laughter, joy, and faith in the Lord.

Lori’s heart of gold touched not only her immediate family but also her extended family. She is deeply missed by her eldest sister, Tammy (Shad) Burdue; niece and nephew, Cassie Burdue (Malachai, Malique, & Leilani) and Austin Burdue, sister, Alexia Lewinski; brother, Tyler Lewinski; sister-in-law, Krista Lewinski; stepmother, Kristen Lewinski-Honisko; and grandmother, Judy Schwind. She is also lovingly remembered by her mother-in-law, Liz Alvarado; brothers-in-law, Jason (Angela) Alvarado (Ethan, Sophia, Nina, and Camila) and Raymond (Diana) Vargas (Izzy, Aalyiah, Gianna, and Raymond Jr.).

Lori was preceded in death by both of her parents whom she adored, Trudy Lewinski and John Patrick Lewinski Jr., as well as her younger brother, Johnny Patrick Lewinski III (“Big Little”).

Her circle of love extended far beyond family, embracing friends and extended family members including Amber Lesinski-Nacis, Richelle Geronimo-Biddle, Abigail Weidman, Shamika Toles, Deanna Williams, Shannon Bumpus, Angela Jernigan, Leah Parkins, Rhonda Seymour, Dana Dawson, Matthew Pennington, Alex (AJ) Davis, Timothy Winter, Julianna Winter, Angelica Geronimo, and Sara Dickess.

Her life was one marked by both love and hardship, strength and struggle. While not all journeys are easily understood, Lori’s life mattered deeply, and her absence is profoundly felt by those who knew and loved her. Lori’s legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and a heart that loved unconditionally. She leaves behind a world made brighter by her presence and a family forever grateful for her unconditional love.

We place our trust in the promise of Scripture: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18) And we rest in the assurance that God’s mercy is greater than what we can comprehend.

Family and Friends are invited to celebrate Lori on Wednesday February 18th, at Grumpy’s located at 34 S Huron St. Toledo, OH 43604 from 6-7pm.

Funeral services will render Military honors in recognition of her service to the United States Army on Thursday February 19th at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Chapel location at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo OH 43614 from 11am-1pm. Immediately followed by procession to Resurrection Cemetery where she will be laid to rest.

In-lieu of flowers, the Family asks to consider contributing to the GoFundMe account created to help with the unexpected funeral and burial costs. Support for Lori A. Chinnis

Please visit Lori's online guestbook at www.sykesfuneralhome.com and share a memory with the family.