Nov 22, 1935 — Aug 8, 2026
Lorraine grew up on a dairy farm in Irvington, where she developed a lifelong love of farm life, gardening, flowers, cattle, and horses. She attended Irvington School through graduation, and it was there that she met the love of her life, Jim. They were high school sweethearts, and after graduation, they married and began their life together on a dairy farm.
Lorraine and Jim were blessed with three children: Sharon, Jimmy, and Julie; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved and adored. While being a busy mother and farm wife, Lorraine also held several part-time jobs over the years. She worked at Richmond Gordman, where she pressed designs onto T-shirts; at Pace and Baker’s, as a sample lady; and at Northwest High School, where she served many ice cream cones to the students.
Lorraine was an active member of the famous Gabby Gals Extension Club. The group was known not only for their good works in the community, but also for the long-lasting friendships and relationships they built over the years. Lorraine enjoyed crafting with ceramics and especially loved participating in 4-H activities with her children.
She was a longtime member of St. Bernard’s and St. James Catholic Churches. Lorraine was always by Jim’s side through their various entrepreneurial ventures. After their years of dairy farming, they entered the landscape supply industry, continuing to build a life and work side by side.
Lorraine lived almost her entire life around 96th and State Street and was fiercely independent, driving until the age of 90. She must have driven down Irvington Road and 90th Street thousands of times over the years—a familiar part of the community she loved and called home.
Lorraine had a whimsical way about her. She had her own silly, quirky gestures and loved a bit of wordplay. She had a way of keeping things light and lively, bringing smiles and laughter to those around her. Those little mannerisms, her playful spirit, and the joy she brought to everyday moments are among the things her family and friends will remember and miss most.
Preceded in death by husband James Sr., son Jimmy, grandson Kyle. Survived by daughters Sharon (Joel ) Byrd, Julie (Bob) Rix, daughter in law Brenda Coenen, 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, many family and friends.
Visitation Saturday 9:30 – 10:30 AM at church. Funeral Service 10:30 AM Saturday (8/15/2026) at St. James Catholic Church 9025 Larimore Ave, Omaha. Interment Calvary Cemetery. Memorials to St. James Catholic Church or Poor Clare Sisters of Omaha.
