To know Cora was truly to love her.  Anyone who crossed her path carried away a piece of her warmth, her joy, and her unmistakable light.  Her spirit was infectious, and she never allowed anyone, or anything, to dim it.  She was strong, bright, and bubbly, with a remarkable gift for bringing people together.

 

During her time with us, Cora lived life with her whole heart.  She could sing like no one was listening, throw kicks and punches with pride in taekwondo, and whip up the best pasta sauce you’d ever taste.  Born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, with proud Italian roots, she spent the last 26 years building a beautiful life in Barrie, Ontario.  Cora raised two wonderful children of her own, and along the way she mothered and cared for many more.  Whether it was her nieces and nephews, her children’s friends, her best friend’s children, or her beloved granddaughter, Cora poured her heart and soul into being the person everyone could run home to.

 

In recent years, she found joy in simple, meaningful moments: long walks with her dog Buffy and her grand-dog Chewy, Thursday night Dungeons & Dragons games with her family, and supporting her sister’s small business. Together, the two of them travelled to markets, Comicons, and FanExpos from Toronto to Montreal. They created costumes, celebrated their favourite shows, and cosplayed their beloved characters, often joined by their sister-in-law Brigitte.

 

But nothing was more important to her than Wednesdays. Wednesdays were “Nonni Day.” Those were the days she spent with her granddaughter, Violet. Playing, snuggling on the couch with movies and shows, and making their famous Nonni-and-Bean chicken fingers, always crafted with an extra pinch of love.

 

Cora’s pride and joy were her children, Chris and Sarah, the loves of her life, along with her cherished granddaughter, Violet. She had friends near and far, and she made more everywhere she went. For 45 years, Cora worked at Sun Life Financial in many roles. During her career she formed countless friendships and touched the lives of many colleagues.

 

On the afternoon of December 2, 2025 Cora passed peacefully at Hospice Simcoe after a courageous and honourable battle with cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her family.

 

She will be remembered always by her children, Chris (Kaitlyn, and parents Brad, Sarah, and Bettyann) and Sarah (David); her granddaughter, Violet; her siblings Vicky (Rico), Emilio (Brigitte), Mario (Linda), and Andy (Anna); and her mother, Concetta Iannacci. She will also be lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews—Andrew, Eric, Arielle, Kieran, Carolina, Jessica (Joe), and Anthony—as well as by many extended family members and dear friends. She is predeceased by her father, Antonio.

 

Cora's family would like to thank everyone for their beautiful tributes and shared memories following her passing. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to Hospice Simcoe (https://hospicesimcoe.ca) in dedication of Cora.

 

The Celebration of Life for Cora Orsini is being held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2-5pm at Three Feathers Terrace (1263 Third Line, Innisfil, ON, L0L 1R0). Her family politely requests all who attend come dressed in Cora's favourite colour, blue, or other bright colours if unable to wear blue. Speeches will be conducted between 3-4pm, and snacks and refreshments will be available. We look forward to seeing you all there, sharing memories, and remembering the beautiful person Cora was.

 

Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.peacefultransition.ca

Peaceful Transition Simcoe

CONDOLENCES

28 Condolences
  • Ruthann Decker
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    From the first day I met Cora I knew she was just an amazing classy lady! I worked side by side with her sister Vicky for many years. And thru those years I also was privileged to call Cora my friend! She has left a mark on all our hearts 💕 and she will live there forever!! You have your wings Cora fly high, until we meet again! RIP hugs 🤗 love ya Ruthann

  • Arlette Plotnikow
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    My deepest and most sincere condolences to the entire family and all of course friends
    Cora was really a special person. She had what we call “ la Joie de vivre”.
    I’ve known Cora during her entire career. It’s Sun Life and we shared many good times and good laughs together. She will definitely be missed by all of her colleagues at Sunlife.
    May you now rest in peace, Cora, and watch over all your loved ones

  • Lisa Holmes
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    So many precious memories of my TKD Black Belt partner and warrior. Cora had true black belt spirit. Cora had trenebdous love for her family, friends, animals and loved get togethers. Her pride and passion in her family always shown though, she always shared what was new and exciting in their lives and her love showed in every story. Our hearts break for her family. You will forever be missed Cora. R.I.P.

  • Carlee Lozano
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    Cora and Buffy were the first ones we really connected with when we moved to Barrie. Buffy and Neo always had their little play dates, and Cora was such a kind, loving person. It truly breaks my heart to hear she’s gone. My deepest condolences.

  • Lysa Woolley
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    I have great memories at SunLife in the 90s with Cora and Vicki. I will never forget them. My sympathies to Vicki and the entire family.

  • Marybeth De Rose
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    Cora was a force of nature. She sparkled her way through the neighborhood and into everyone’s hearts. She knew everyone by name…including their dogs. She will be missed so tremendously by humans and canines alike.

  • Eric Marshall
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    Cora was like a second mother to me when Sarah and I were in highschool. Her incredible warmth will never be forgotten.

  • Rita and Joseph D’Antonio
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    We are so so very sorry to hear of dear beautiful Cora. She was our neighbour on Taylor Dr – always with a smile. Always spreading joy and sunshine every time you saw her. We missed her so when she moved to a new neighborhood, but knew that she wanted to be near her family and make space for them. A beautiful soul, indeed! May your family be comforted in knowing she was a true angel on earth.

  • Wendy Duffy
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    To Sarah, Chris and your family,

    I cannot express how sorry I am. I know you know that she loved you; everyone could see that. But she also loved your friends, including Emily, and I will never forget that. Sarah, for years, when you and Emily were in high school and university, your mother and I would send each other pictures or videos of the two of you as they popped up in our Facebook memories, and remember how little the two of you were and how long you had been friends. I hope the memories and the love help you feel her all around you 💜

  • Luciano and Nicole Ferri
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    Cora, you will always be remembered for you love of life and constant smile

  • Aileen Leavitt
    Posted on: Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Reply

    I’m at a loss for words. Cora was always such a light in every conversation and time spent together. She was always talking about her children and granddaughter and her family with such pride. Rest in peace Cora ❤️

  • Jennifer Ensing
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    I am so sorry for your family’s loss. Cora was a good friend and a wonderful colleague and I will miss her terribly. My thoughts are with you always. Jenn

  • Sandra Scioscia
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    Her radient smile, her infectious laughter and her bright positivity touched everyone around her. She brought a hint of sunshine everywhere she went. May you take comfort in knowing that her love shines down on everyone she held dear and that she will forever live in our hearts and memories.

  • Manuel M
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    Cora and I only worked together for a year, but she immediately took me under her wing when I started a new role on her team. She was patient and encouraging, full of knowledge and also funny and interesting stories from her day-to-day life. Her passion for everything she did always shone through, and it was infectious.

    Cora will be greatly missed.

    My condolences go out to Cora’s family and friends.

  • Aaron and Brandon Vieira
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    Grief is the price we pay for love. I am so heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Auntie Cora. I send my condolences to the whole family during this difficult time.

    Love Aaron and Brandon Vieira

  • Lily Nardozi
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    I was so saddened by the news of Cora’s passing. A truly beautiful person and colleague. I will always remember her authentic personality and great smile. Condolences to her entire family. To Vicky…a big hug my friend.

  • Ishrat Karsan
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    Cora was such a beautiful woman. Her children were her zest for life.
    I worked with Cora & it was truly a blessing for me to have the pleasure to work with her.
    My prayers for her soul to rest in eternal peace.
    Prayers for peace & comfort for the family.

  • Gord Boyle
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    My heartfelt condolences to Cora’s family and friends. I’ve known Cora sine elementary school Laurendeau-Dunton in Ville Lasalle. I have fond memories of Cora and she will be missed 🙏

  • Michel Chartrand
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    I met Cora only few times in the past 15 years, being a friend of one an indirect relative of her.

    Each time I met her, it was a moment of joy and light. What a beautiful person, genereous of herself, always open to listen to others.

    Peace of the Lord be with her, with all her family members and with all that still have her in their heart.

  • Miriam Saati
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    My deepest condolences; my heart and prayers go out to all her family and friends. I have had the pleasure to work with Cora in Sun Life. She was such a wonderful person, very kind and supportive, and spreads joy around. She will be terribly missed. May her soul rest in eternal peace 🙏

  • Maria Varano Gallo
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    Sarah, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I remember your mom so well. She adored you. I’m sending you all my prayers. Your mom will always be there with you as your guardian angel. ❤️🙏

  • Emily Duffy
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    My heart aches for Sarah, Chris, Violet, and everyone who knew and loved Cora.

    She truly was like a second mother to me from the time Sarah and I were in kindergarten. In recent years I didn’t see her as frequently, but any time I walked into her house she made me feel just as welcome as always – with a big hug and a smile, asking about my life, my work, and my family. It’s nearly inconceivable that someone so bright and full of life could be gone.

    Cora made this world a brighter place just by being in it. To know her truly was to love her, and her memory is a blessing to me and everyone else she opened her heart and home to.

    Sending heartfelt condolences and peace to her family and loved ones.

    I will never forget Cora and the positive impact she had on my life.

    In ár gCroíthe go deo.
    In our hearts forever.

  • Jonny Jevons
    Posted on: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Reply

    When I met Cora I was little. I met her at taekwondo she was my instructor she helped me.

  • Nathan Currie
    Posted on: Friday, December 5, 2025 Reply

    I’m truly sorry to hear of your families loss Enrico, beautiful obituary, she sounded amazing.

  • Randy Curnow
    Posted on: Saturday, December 6, 2025 Reply

    There are certain people that come into your life and bless you more than you can say! From the moment you met her, Cora enriched your life with her kindness and beautiful disposition! She has made me a better person. I feel so blessed to have known her for more than a quarter century! Not a day goes by I don’t think of her! I will think of her every single day till we meet again!
    Thank You Cora for being a significant part of my life.
    May You Rest In Peace!!

  • Kufre Akata
    Posted on: Monday, December 8, 2025 Reply

    I do not know the exact words that could describe accurately how saddened I am to have lost such a wonderful colleague. I may not have known Cora for ages but for the past two years I worked with her, she was exceptionally warm, energetic and ready to assist making her one of my go-to colleagues for help. My deepest condolences to her family. I will miss you, Cora, Adieu!

  • Karen Gowans
    Posted on: Monday, December 8, 2025 Reply

    Sad to hear of the passing of such an incredible woman. I had the privilege of training alongside Cora in Taekwondo, and in every session, she embodied tenacity, hard work, and a commitment to excellence that inspired everyone around her. What stood out most was her infectious smile and positive energy, which never faded, even during the toughest moments. She didn’t just take part in the community—she created one, bringing people together with her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support. Her legacy of strength, kindness, and leadership will live on in all of us who had the honor of knowing her. Rest in peace Cora!

  • Sofia Mihaylova
    Posted on: Monday, December 15, 2025 Reply

    My deepest condolences. Cora was truly a special person. With her big smile, willingness to help and great sense of humor, she made our team at work a better place to be. We will miss her. I’m so sorry for your loss.

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