Obituary of Lorraine Coleman

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Teresa Lorraine Coleman (nee O’Brien) who passed peacefully away at home in her 95^th year on September 14, 2023, the feast of the Triumph of the Cross.

Lorraine is survived by her eight children Frank, Katherine, Bob, Elizabeth, Margaret, Bill, Carolyn and Eleanor and sons and daughters-in-law Yvonne, John, Tina, Wayne, Elizabeth, and Scott who surrounded her with loving care.  Affectionately known as “Comey” by her 30 grandchildren and 48 great grandchildren, Lorraine leaves her family a life full of memories and a legacy of unwavering faith.

Born November 2, 1928 to Peter and Philomena O’Brien in Curling East, Lorraine was one of a large, loving family. She is predeceased by brothers Stan, Jack, Tom, Ron, Harold, and Jim; sisters Annie, Bea, Kit, and Mary. On August 12, 1952 Lorraine married the love of her life Eugene Joseph Coleman from Glace Bay, Nova Scotia who passed away in 1991 and with whom she is now reunited. Alongside her husband, Lorraine worked hard to provide a happy life and a loving home for their eight children.

Lorraine cherished her family above all else. Her warm family gatherings and rich traditions fostered a legacy of joyful family celebration that will endure.  What joy there was on Christmas Eve when she lovingly hosted her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren for a delicious Christmas dinner that culminated with her famous flaming plum pudding! Not only was she a great cook, but Comey had many talents, including sewing quilts for her treasured grandchildren. She was an incredible painter, a gifted dancer who also loved to travel and play bridge. Lorraine, a keen athlete, excelled at many sports including curling and cross-country skiing.   A skilled, competitive golfer, her love of golf was evident in the delight with which she golfed here at home or enjoyed golf trips with family and friends.

Lorraine’s quick wit and humour were a constant source of laughter for her friends and family. She was a great listener who offered wise counsel to the many who sought her advice. Lorraine’s gifts were many.  Among them, her warm compassion, her open mindedness and her acceptance of others which enabled her to connect with all, but in particular with young people. She had a way of making people feel seen and loved. Lorraine was a woman of great faith with a special devotion to the rosary.

The family would like to warmly thank the team of caregivers who provided skilled and caring support during Lorraine’s final years. 

Visitation is at Fillatre’s Funeral Home, 4 St. Mark’s Avenue on Sunday, September 17, 2023 from the hours of 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Funeral mass will take place on Monday, September 18, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at The Cathedral of the Most Holy Redeemer, Mount Bernard Avenue.

As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Western Memorial Hospital Foundation.

The funeral mass can be viewed livestream through the following link

https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=24c1a241-af93-495e-9402-8327431ce169

“In the twilight of life, we will be judged on love alone”

-Saint John of the Cross-