Lorna May Kainoalau Kipilii

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lorna May Kainoalau Kipilii, affectionately known as “Big Aunty Lorna”,who left this world on July 24, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on November 29, 1943, in Puna, Hawaii. The cherished daughter of the late Edward and Mary W. Kipilii, Lorna was blessed with a large and loving family. She was predeceased by her parents and her siblings: sisters Kealii, Harriet, Virginia, Mary, Agnes, and Elizabeth Ann, as well as brothers Charley, Edward, Franklin, and Abraham. Her legacy continues through her many nieces and nephews, who adored their Aunty Lorna and carry forward her spirit of aloha. A true entertainer at heart, Lorna found her calling in music. With her ukulele in hand and a voice that could warm the hearts of everyone. Some of her happiest moments were spent traveling and performing in Japan, where her melodies transcended language barriers and touched countless hearts. Later in life, Lorna demonstrated her resilience and adaptability by embarking on a new venture with the support of Ho’opono School for the Blind. She became a successful business owner, operating Lorna’s Snack Shop, until her well-deserved retirement. Her shop was more than a place of business; it was a gathering place where stories were shared, and friendships were made. Aunty Lorna loved to talk stories, play her ukulele and sing with everyone. Her family will host a celebration of her life on August 28, 2026, at 8:30 AM at Mililani Downtown Mortuary. Burial will follow at Hawaiian Memorial (Kaneohe) at 1:00 pm In a heartfelt message, her family reflects on the indelible mark she left: "To Aunty Lorna, thank you for every song, every laugh, every lesson, and every prayer. Thank you for showing us that joy isn’t found in perfect circumstances but in how we choose to live. We will miss you deeply, but we’ll carry your music, your faith, and your love with us always. Until we meet again, we love you