Pauline Lazore

AKWESASNE – Pauline Lazore, lovingly known as Totamom, of 1100 River Road in Akwesasne, began her sacred journey to the Sky World on the afternoon of Monday, May 19, 2025, at the age of 67, after undergoing a liver transplant, and weathering many complications with resilience. She eventually chose peace, bringing her long and difficult journey to a close. Surrounded by love, she returned to the stars.
Born in Cornwall, Ontario, on October 8, 1957, Pauline was the daughter of the late Peter and Cecilia (Lazare) Jacobs. She was raised on Yellow Island and began her schooling in Snye. She later graduated from General Vanier Secondary School and Mater Dei College.
On November 9, 1974, she married the love of her life, Ronald J. Lazore, at their home in Snye. Together they built a strong, loving family and celebrated over 50 years of marriage.
Pauline was a deeply respected professional, having worked in various roles that served both her community and Indigenous nations across the region. Her work included positions with the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino in the Human Resources Department, the Cree Nation of Mistissini, Ohwistha Capital Corporation, S.O.A.R. Development Corporation, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe. She also found joy and purpose in her work as a business consultant, using her gift for writing business plans to support countless entrepreneurs in turning their dreams into reality.
Her most important role was being Totamom and was happiest when surrounded by her family. A devoted grandmother and great-grandmother who would often be found on the sidelines of a lacrosse, volleyball, soccer, basketball, baseball, or softball game, cheering on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren with pride. She was a master canner and talented seamstress, known especially for her jam. Proud of her gardens and greenhouse, she generously shared the fruits of her labor. She was a second-generation residential school survivor and a member of the Akwesasne Death Benefits Group.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Ronald; her children, Christina Lazore (Allen Smoke), James Lazore (Elaine MacLeod), Pamela Pembleton, and Terri Lazore (Washogeebic Silver), all of Akwesasne; her grandchildren, Taylor (Kallie) and Kaeliana, Allison and Reannon, Rakwirahes and Rarontiiostha, Rawennakaion, Rariwakerons, Kawennanirats, Ierihwanirats, Iehahsherenhawe, Karahkhwashere, Tewatewennahkwa, Aanzhenikwe, Wejiiw, Waaznoday, Mushtewin, and Tia; and her great-grandchildren, Easton and Sadie.
She is also survived by her sister, Sheilah Jacobs (Dave Square); her brother Louis "Ronnie" Jacobs (Lorene); brothers-in-law Gary Lazore (Paris), Wayne Lazore (Charity); sister-in-law Elaine Lazore; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren including RJ, Tammy, Virginia "Kawi" and Jamie.
Pauline was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Cecilia Jacobs; her son-in-law, Rasennes Pembleton; granddaughter, Kawennanoron Pembleton; her brothers James "Dewey" and William Jacobs; her sister Mary (in infancy); and her in-laws, Francis and Naomi Lazore.
Friends may call at the Akwesasne Homemakers beginning at 7:00 PM Thursday until the time of the service at 11:00 AM Saturday.
The Lazore family extends their heartfelt thanks to Pauline's special friends, and the caregivers who helped her through her transition. A special thank you is offered to the McGill University Health Center, Royal Victoria Hospital ICU staff, the 9th and 10th floor nurses, the PABs, and her dedicated team of doctors.
Pauline's warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy woven with quiet strength and tenderness, a presence that will continue to surround us and carry us forward.