10/29/1931 – 1/18/2019
Lorraine Willis was known for her uncanny way of bringing a smile to your face. Her sense of humor was unmatched.
She passed at home 1-18-19 with her children and friends by her side. She was born at the farm home of her parents Herbert & Edith Leonard near Watertown, South Dakota. Her grandparents were homesteaders in The Dakota Territory, some of the very first settlers.
After graduating from Watertown High School she went on to nursing school. She graduated from Sioux Valley in 1952 with her R.N. degree. Her nursing career spanned over 45 years in four states. Most of those years were spent at Immanuel in Omaha. She was known as “Willie”. She won the Nebraska Caring Kind Award.
Many of her Immanuel family came to her aid to care for her in the final weeks of her life.
She married James W. Willis 2-14-53. She was his caregiver when he had a lengthy battle with cancer. He called her his “Goose”. They shared many hobbies and good times and always made a beautiful home where you felt truly loved. Together they had four children. She was the “Best” Mom ever to Catherine, Steven (Kathy), Doug and Mel (Rhett) Romsa. She had five grandchildren, Michael, Ryan (Allie), James, Olivia and Hannah. Three great-granddaughters Addysen, Emersyn & Rowyn Lorraine. She adored them all. Loving Nieces and Nephews who came to see her this past year. Her special “Grand-dog” Boomer who always stayed by her side. Many, Many friends.
Special thanks for all your love and support goes to Devin & John, Maggie, Dody, Debbie, Marlene, Barb, Vickie and her entire “Willie” Team. Of course, Darlene and all her wonderful neighbors.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, Helen, Fae & Eldred. She cherished them. They were some of the most humorous fun-loving people you could ever meet. They shared many adventures.
She was one in a million. Always humble and kind. Family will welcome her friends March 9th, 11a.m. to 2p.m. at Roeder Mortuary 108th St. Memories and Prayers at 12:15p.m. with Marlene Swanson officiating. Please omit flowers. Direct memorials to the family. Wear your denim – Willie’s trademark.
Her final resting place will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in her family plot with her husband James in June 2019.
Roeder Mortuary, Inc. – 108th Street Chapel; 2727 N. 108th Street – Omaha, NE – 402-496-9000; www.RoederMortuary.com
