Qin Li

Born on April 15, 1956 in Yining, Xinjiang, China, Qin lived a life overflowing with love, laughter, and a remarkable ability to uplift those around her.

Qin was the eldest of four siblings, and from a young age, she lovingly cared for her younger brothers and sister. Following high school, she dedicated two years as an elementary school teacher. She then pursued her studies at a traditional Chinese medicine college. After graduating, she devoted herself to practicing Chinese medicine in a clinic for four years. In 1989, her career was unexpectedly cut short due to an opportunity to move to Canada where her husband, Fangming Lai, was pursuing graduate studies.

Qin’s hard work, resilience, and tireless dedication were truly inspiring. She poured endless energy into supporting her family—including working late night shifts at a clothing factory, taking on weekend housekeeping jobs, babysitting, and even opening her own restaurant, which thrived from day one. On top of this, every day, she found the time to prepare delicious home cooked meals for her family to enjoy together.

Family was Qin’s heart and soul. What brought her the utmost joy was traveling and exploring the world together. The family adventures included Japan, Iceland, Spain, Belgium, France, Netherlands, and Disney World — memories she treasured deeply. Even when her strength waned and travel was no longer possible, her smile shined brightly whenever her grandchildren and family gathered by her side sharing stories and memories together.

Her friends will forever remember her radiant personality—her lighthearted jokes, spontaneous Xinjiang-style dancing, and contagious laughter that could light up any room. They’ll also remember her incredible cooking, especially during the beloved Friends Christmas Party she hosted each holiday season, where her culinary talents truly shined. Whether sharing meals or taking long walks together through Cary, North Carolina—her cherished home of 25 years—Qin made everyday moments feel special. She also found appreciation in the simple beauty of life, especially in gardening, crabbing, listening to music, collecting rocks, and spending time with the family dogs.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Fangming Lai; her beloved children, Jonathan and Amy; daughter-in-law, Tiffany; son-in-law, George; her three cherished grandchildren, Jackson, Blakely, and Kennedy; her father, Yi Li; and her younger brother, Wuqi Li.

Qin will be profoundly missed, but her legacy lives on—in the love she cultivated, the traditions she built, and the joy she so effortlessly shared with everyone around her. A Celebration of her Life was held in the Chapel of Mitchell Funeral Home on Saturday, July 26 at 10:30am.

The family wishes to express a heartfelt gratitude to all her dear friends who offered companionship and support during her courageous battle. Special thanks also to the caring team at Duke Hospital and Hospice, whose dedication ensured she was comforted and cared for with grace and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will gratefully be accepted directly to Duke Homecare & Hospice,

Glioblastoma Research Organization, or to the National Brain Tumor Society, by using the links below, under 'Donations'.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory / story, poem or photos of Qin, or a message of condolence for her family, you may do so below, within 'Add a Memory'.