Lorraine Silva

With acceptance and also sadness, we announce the passing of Lorraine Silva. She left us peacefully at her home on September 15, 2024, at the age of 97.

Born on January 12, 1927, in Visalia, California, Lorraine was the daughter of Joe and Rita Silva and one of seven children. The family owned a small farm and dairy, and from a young age Lorraine took on the responsibilities of cooking, cleaning and caring for her younger siblings. Lorraine had a deep love for learning and cherished her school days, although she was only allowed to attend until age 12. She often remarked that, under different circumstances, she would have loved to become a teacher. Later in life, Lorraine proudly returned to her studies, earning her GED. She also sought to improve her Portuguese to better communicate with her then father-in-law and within her work environment by attending a local community college where she also took various other courses.

Following her marriage, Lorraine moved to Hanford California where she raised her three daughters; Carolyn Deniz, Judith Deniz (Jack) of San Francisco, and Danette Dutra (Bill) of Hanford. As a single mother she instilled in them the values of independence, strength, and of course the importance of education.

Lorraine worked as a cashier at Big John's Food King for over 20 years, where she made a number of significant contributions including bringing the local retail clerks' union to her workplace. She fought tirelessly for her fellow employees’ rights, reflecting her strong sense of justice and community. Lorraine retired to focus on what she would call her most rewarding occupation, looking after her three grandchildren, Brigette Dutra (Zahi), Samantha Jenkins (William), and Jarrett Dutra (Lucie). Grandmother, teacher, storyteller, chauffeur, she was all of these and so much more. She was “Gammy”. They spent countless happy days together at her house where fun, love, creativity, learning, and support were offered to anyone who walked through the door. Related or not, all were welcome at “Gammy’s House”.

Lorraine demonstrated a life-long dedication to helping others and to her Catholic faith. When not attending her grandchildren’s activities or delivering donuts to McCarthy school for recess, she could be found volunteering at St. Brigid Parish, the St. Vincent de Paul's store and the hospital gift shop, even forsaking sleep to attend the 3:00 AM shift for Adoration of the Eucharist. Lorraine’s love of caring for others extended to the animal kingdom as well. She looked after countless pets throughout the years (including those of her daughters and grandchildren). She was especially devoted to her cat “Montana” (named after the 49er’s legendary quarterback), which she acquired late in life from a local cat shelter. Another passion Lorraine enjoyed was working in her yard, no weed dared stay long under her watchful eye!

Lorraine was preceded in death by her brothers Joe Silva (Alice) and Vernie Silva (Wanda), and her sisters Rita Rose (Clarence), Alice Rose (Richard), and Dorothy Camaroda (Anthony). She is survived by her sister Viola Soares (Joe), her daughters, and grandchildren. Her legacy and spirit continue through her four great-grandchildren George, Elisabeth (Lily), Barnabee, and Celeste, who brought her immense joy.

The family extends their appreciation to the Adventist Health Hospice program for their kindness and support to Lorraine and her family in her final days. A rosary (10:00 am) and mass (10:30 am) celebrating Lorraine’s life will be held on December 21st at St. Brigid's Catholic Church. Lorraine (Gammy) was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her. May she rest in a well-earned peace. In her memory, consider making a charitable donation to the Kings SPCA or adopting a pet in need of a loving home.

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