Rachel Elizabeth Ory

Rachel Elizabeth Ory died peacefully on Thursday, August 24, 2023, from the effects of a brain aneurysm, at the young age of 48.

Rachel was born on October 8, 1974, to Ray and Pauline. Though their marriage would end, they would continue their relationship as parents. Ray and Pauline went on to remarry, and out of loss bore love, blessing Rachel with the added treasure of her stepmother Connie Jo, and stepfather John. Each parent contributed to the capable, competent, caring, and compassionate woman she dedicated her life to becoming.

Rachel was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, but raised in Texas. The Houston suburb of Katy would be the backdrop for a childhood rich with family traditions, books, and friendships.  Saturday mornings brimmed with imagination from dressing up in Connie’s high school formals, to fireplace hearth performances belting out Annie’s “Tomorrow,” to the many adventures of Barbie. This became the foundation for Rachel and Michelle's sister bond. Despite the age difference that gave way to periods of separation, the sisters always found their way back to each other. Their bond was a promise that neither would ever truly be alone, serving as each other’s safety nets in a chaotic world. That little bit of childhood was never lost.

Summers and holidays with the Louisiana family involved traveling at the posted speed of 55 mph, engaging in contests for car seat territory, and the old “I’m bothering you, but not bothering you” game between sisters ending with the grown-ups bothered most. Predictably, the car time out by Dad was the result, sending each sister into backseat isolation with noses pressed against opposing windows. Family time in LaPlace always included a cousin slumber party hosted by super cool Aunt Kathy. Rachel treasured spending time with her Mom and John at their camp boating, floating, and fishing the Tickfaw River. Evenings were often spent on the screen porch enjoying Rachel’s favorite- crawfish! John introduced the sisters to the art of fine dining, taking them to the finest New Orleans restaurants where they had permission to order the “special” along with the most decadent of desserts.

At age 6, Rachel’s first dog was a Snoopy toy from Santa on Christmas morning. Snoopy and his sister Belle were her constant companions and her mother Pauline tried to but never quite matched the joy the pair brought Rachel that Christmas. She continued to gift Rachel with Snoopy cards and memorabilia into adulthood and Rachel even got a Snoopy tattoo to commemorate the character. The pure joy of that Christmas morning was the beginning of a lifelong love of dogs. She cared for and nurtured them, and nothing was ‘too’ much. Her most recent rescue was Marcus in 2019. She spoiled Marcus with long walks, pup cups from Bahama Bucks, and lots of kisses. In exchange, Marcus was her protector.

From the young age of 13, Rachel was a fighter, experiencing major surgery for life-threatening spine curvature. The surgical innovation of the time for scoliosis was hooking two pencil-sized rods to her vertebrae limiting Rachel’s height to 5’2”. Her family sat bedside through a worrisome and lengthy recovery, but this experience did not dull the green-eyed beauty’s light and unveiled Rachel’s knack for using humor and wit to alleviate pain and anger. It was the origin of her ability to use her irreverent remarks to guide others through tumultuous emotions, granting them the freedom to embrace laughter, tears, and process discomfort. Grateful for a procedure that saved her life, Rachel’s condition would eventually lead to chronic pain and neuropathy.

Rachel’s photographic memory and quick thinking led her to excel in school. She was a 1993 High Honors graduate of Katy High School. In true family tradition, she entered the University of Texas and graduated in 1996 with honors and a bachelor’s of Business administration and Marketing. She was a UT “die-hard,” even driving a burnt orange Camaro with “BevoBee” personalized plates. She remained an active Lifetime Alumni of the Texas Exes and a loyal Longhorn fan. She and stepmother Connie Jo bonded over their love for UT football (and all things Texas), and never intentionally missed a game.

Her life would change forever when she met David McGinn in 1999 and their daughter Kelsey was born on September 20, 2000. Rachel became her number one fan, cheering her soccer star on. Rain or shine, Rachel could be found on the sidelines.

Rachel shared her favorite books with Kelsey, reading 'The Sorcerer's Stone' and the enchanting verses of Shel Silverstein together. Her love for reading was more than a pastime; it was a quest for knowledge, a means to better the world, and a path to self-improvement. Rachel's sharp intellect, humor, and witty sarcasm made her a captivating conversationalist, a voice that commanded attention and respect. When Rachel spoke, people listened.

But Rachel's artistic passions didn't end with literature. Rachel had a deep affection for music. Her extensive playlist included songs from 311, Phoebe Bridgers, Linkin Park, Muse, Deftones, and Depeche Mode. It was a source of solace and their lyrics gave her power to voice feelings that were difficult to express. As Rachel and Kelsey grew older, their love for music became a cherished bond. Music served as a valuable comforter, healer, and emotional outlet. Rachel made it a point to share this love with Kelsey, taking her to many concerts, from Harry Styles to Greta Van Fleet and Boygenius. It was during these unforgettable moments that they thrived and truly connected.

Beyond their shared love for music, Rachel imparted invaluable lessons to Kelsey. She encouraged her to approach new experiences with an adventurous and prideful spirit, whether it was trying a new food, braving a scary movie, or embarking on a new chapter in life. Their connection went beyond mother and daughter; they were best friends who confided in each other. Kelsey shared an incredibly close bond with her mom, together navigating life's joys and sorrows with laughter and tears.

Rachel gained experience with several companies before realizing her true expertise in Human Resources. Her natural aptitude for working collaboratively, combined with her genuine enjoyment of it, propelled her to attain a Human Resources certification in December 2014 from Rice University. In 2015, she furthered her commitment to the field by becoming a Certified Professional with the Society for Human Resource Management. Throughout her career, Rachel's innate ability to connect with others and provide valuable guidance became a defining feature. It was in this role as a mentor and advisor that she found her true professional fulfillment.

From 2010 to 2017, she steadily advanced her career at Frontica and Aker Solutions, ultimately securing the role of Human Resources Manager at Archrock in 2017. In her most recent endeavor, she worked in the Human Resources and Risk Management office for Harris County. Rachel's zest for life extended to her love for DIY projects and home improvements. Her patio, in particular, became a tranquil haven, adorned with hanging lights that sparkled like stars. She infused her living space with vibrant bursts of color and glitter, reflecting her inner beauty and sense of fun. Rachel's unique style was a vibrant mix of glamor and glitz, evident not only in her home decor but also in her wardrobe choices and colorful hairstyles. She fearlessly embraced every color of the spectrum, with a particular fondness for the vibrant shades of pink and purple, often adorned with a generous sprinkling of glitter. Her fashion sense earned her accolades from her team, who admired her impeccable work outfits that exuded positivity and fun. Rachel's workdays were never dull; she kept a bowl of candy in her office and was known to brighten up her colleagues' days with impromptu dance moves and witty jokes.

As a recovering addict, Rachel understood the stigmatization of addiction. Recovery is not a linear journey, and the phrase ‘One day at a time’ often used in recovery is how she approached life. Rachel embraced the nonlinear nature of recovery and helped others  live ‘One day at a time’ in their sobriety. Rachel's commitment to helping people in their sobriety journeys was a testament to her compassionate spirit.

Later in life, during Heart-to-Heart retreats with her friends, Rachel's flair for standing out shone brightly. She and her friends ventured into imaginative costume choices, whether they were channeling the iconic band KISS or paying tribute to Shane Stant and Nancy Kerrigan. Rachel's creativity added an extra layer of joy to these memorable gatherings.

Rachel’s friend Kelly remembers the day she chose sobriety. Even though Rachel had just buried Ms. Connie, she attended a meeting and spoke. Kelly vividly recalls Rachel’s overwhelming anger and sadness, but Rachel’s speech completely stopped her in her tracks. Rachel understood that because she was sober, she was able to be there for her daughter who had lost her grandmother. That night, Kelly received her very first desire chip, not only for herself but for her loved ones. Because Rachel showed up that night and shared her grief, she stayed.

“For the next ten years, and because I stayed, I’ve helped other lost girls find their way, and then they’ve helped others, and on and on and on. But, we aren’t perfect. And sometimes we lose our way again. I always knew she would come back. I just thought we would have more time. We did not,” said Kelly.

Her guidance and presence helped others, in sponsorship or just as a friend. Rachel understood the importance of community, seeking help from loved ones, and prioritizing therapy. She knew relapse was a part of recovery, and she fought until her last day to better her life and self the best she could. “She helped me change my life. She was somehow strict and loving at the same time. She introduced me to a life that I never imagined,” said Shannon. Her legacy of empathy, resilience, and dedication to the cause of sobriety will be cherished and remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Rachel passed from this life as her parents Ray and Pauline held her hands. Her passing was sudden, but painless and in the presence of loved ones and her stepmother Connie’s polished sea bean. She continued to give in death as she gave in life and donated her organs so that others may live a better life.

Rachel is survived by her mother Pauline Burkett; father Raymond Ory Jr. and stepmother Susan Ory; daughter, Kelsey McGinn; sister, Michelle and husband Alan Corbin; niece, Caroline Corbin; dog, Marcus; many cousins, aunts and uncles, dear friends (especially Sunshine) and others who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by stepmother, Connie Jo Ory; stepfather, John Burkett; and nephew, Travis Corbin.

Rachel was a force to be reckoned with. She was strong, beautiful, and loved deeply and fiercely. Her loss will be felt through every person who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held on September 16, 2023, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s United Methodist Church, 20775 Kingsland Blvd, Katy, TX 77450. Food and Fellowship to follow in Asbury Hall.

Rachel will be interred in Memorial Oaks Cemetery; 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079