The Lord has opened the door to the room He prepared for Minnie L. Phelan, lovingly known as Lori. She passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, August 9, 2025, after a long struggle with COPD, enduring the disease for 23 years.
Born on October 2, 1949, in Gantt, Ala., to Evan Adoulphus Compton and Mary Sue Aughtman, Lori faced profound losses in her life, including the passing of her son, Scott, at the age of 23, and her daughter, Kelly, at 50. Despite these heart-wrenching challenges, she continued to selflessly care for her family and loved ones, embodying unwavering strength and devotion.
Lori is survived by her husband of 44 years, Joseph D. Phelan; her daughter/granddaughter, Mandy Leigh Phelan; her grandson, Bert, who resides in North Tonawanda with his two sons and loving wife; and her sister, Kathy. As the second of six children, Lori cherished her many nieces, nephews, and siblings, whom she lovingly cared for in their youth.
Throughout her life, Lori expressed her creativity through painting, sewing, and cooking. Her love for painting allowed her to showcase her artistic side. Sewing and painting provided her with a creative outlet and the ability to make personalized gifts for her family, reflecting her thoughtfulness.
Lori’s cooking was especially beloved at family gatherings and parties, where her delicious food brought everyone together and created cherished memories. In her younger years, she became passionate about yoga and even completed yoga teacher training to explore her hobbies further.
She had a deep love for animals and delighted in caring for the little abandoned creatures that Mandy would bring home, showing them the same compassion she extended to her family. Lori also had a love for Elvis and was a huge fan of Dale Earnhardt, often sharing her enthusiasm for both with those around her.
With an innocent demeanor, Lori often resembled the main character Anne from her favorite show, Anne with an E, who was quirky and innocent, much like herself.
Lori received care and support from many throughout her life, but in the end, it was Estera and Reveca who provided her with invaluable assistance, demonstrating patience and grace, embodying the spirit of deep friendship and care.
Her husband devoted his life to caring for her, showing unwavering love. As a nurturing mother, Lori was a devoted advocate for her beloved daughter, Mandy, always seizing every opportunity to support her.
A dedicated member of The Cove Church in Mooresville for 18 years, Lori’s love for God was evident in her service and compassion for those in need. After the tragic loss of her son in 1993, she retired from M&T Bank as a check processor, where she performed the duties of more than two people due to her hard work and efficiency, achieving the highest rating of 4 at the data center. She then dedicated her time to being a nurturing mother to Mandy.
A viewing will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025, at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville. A second memorial service will take place in New York on August 21, 2025.
We welcome everyone to come and say goodbye. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude or The Cove Church in Mooresville.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is serving the family.