Born in Southampton, New York, on the east end of Long Island, she was the daughter of Austin Squires Van Scoy and Elizabeth Robertson (Foggo) Van Scoy.

In 1952, she married a Belgian psychiatrist whom she met during her time at Columbia. Following her divorce and after her children left home, Lorna moved to Upper Jay, where she was a long-time resident.

In accordance with her wishes, Lorna will return to Maine, a place she adored, where her remains will join those of her beloved daughter, Annie.