Lori grew up in Humble, Texas. After attending the University of North Texas, she moved to New York City to pursue a singing career. In 2000, Lori received a calling into the ministry, which changed her life.

She began leading worship at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church of New York and later resumed at First Presbyterian Church of Pasadena, Tx, and where she also worked with the youth. Currently, she also serves as the Director of Caring Ministries at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church.

In December of 2006, Lori met Wes Whitfield and one year later, they were married. Lori feels truly blessed to begin a new chapter as worship leader at her beloved home church of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Houston.