<p>Laurence Nigel deFreitas, 80, originally of Provincetown, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at Crestview Court nursing care facility near Dallas, Texas. He went to be with his Lord and Savior, surrounded by love and faith.</p>
<p>Born on February 22, 1945, in Georgetown, British Guiana (now Guyana), Laurence was the beloved son of Camille (Willison) and Decio deFreitas. He was the cherished younger brother of the late Peter deFreitas and sister-in-law Carmel (Mendes deFranca), and the dearly loved brother of Frances Cormier (deFreitas) and brother-in-law Roy Cormier. He was a devoted uncle to James, Philip, Brian, Alissa, and Terence.</p>
<p>Laurence's early childhood in British Guiana was filled with adventure and joy. He grew up among a large extended family of ten aunts and uncles and first cousins who were both playmates and lifelong friends. In 1955, at the age of 10, he was sent to boarding school at St. Edmund's College in England.</p>
<p>Following his formal education, Laurence returned briefly to Georgetown to work in the family business, Charlestown Sawmills, before beginning a new chapter in Canada. He lived first in Montreal, where he worked for SunLife and Gulf Oil, and later in Toronto, residing in the vibrant Yorkville neighborhood during the 1970s and early 1980s-a bohemian hub for artists, writers, and musicians.</p>
<p>It was during this time that Laurence discovered his true calling. His exposure to rich cultural environments in London, Montreal, and Toronto helped cultivate his love for the culinary arts, and he eventually became an accomplished self-taught chef.</p>
<p>Laurence lived a full and adventurous life. He was drawn to beauty-in people, in places, in art, in food. A voracious reader who always had a book in hand, he surrounded himself with unique art, artifacts, and books reflecting his diverse background and eclectic tastes. He loved the outdoors, playing tennis, playing any type of card game especially bridge and had a passion for creative photography.</p>
<p>His culinary journey brought him to Key West, Florida, where he became the owner and chef of Jordan's Café. There, he gained local celebrity status through glowing reviews that celebrated his culinary talents. In 1988, he brought his talents to Provincetown, Massachusetts, where he served as Executive Chef at the renowned and award-winning The Mews for 25 years. Provincetown became his forever home-a place where he was deeply connected and widely loved.</p>
<p>Laurence enjoyed the company of friends and family and radiated warmth. He had a quick wit, a wry sense of humor, an easy smile and an unforgettable laugh. People were naturally drawn to his charm, kindness, and sincerity. He was known to make the perfect gin & tonic and always made guests feel welcome, a gift that served him well in his vocation as a chef-bringing people together through the joy of good food and shared moments.</p>
<p>A man of deep faith, Laurence drew strength from his relationship with God, especially in the last five years of his life, following a tragic bicycle accident that left him partially paralyzed and impaired his ability to speak. Despite the immense challenges, he remained resilient, humorous, and grateful for the presence of friends and family who stood by him. His family extends heartfelt thanks to all who visited, called, and sent cards during those difficult years-your love meant the world to him.</p>
<p>A Celebration of Life will be held in Provincetown, Massachusetts, at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Doctor's Without Borders (US / CAN / UK) which Laurence was a supporter of.</p>
<p>Laurence lived fully and loved deeply. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the meals he crafted, the laughter he shared, and the faith that sustained him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.</p>
<p>Memories and condolences may be shared at <a href="http://www.inlyf.com">www.inlyf.com</a>.</p>