Obituary of Lorraine Thomas

Her Legacy… Lorraine was called to rest on August 6, 2023 at Oroville Hospital, in Oroville, California. She was born in Tupelo, Mississippi on November 7, 1927 to her beloved parents, Dezzie Lee and LaGrone Stovall, who preceded her in death. Lorraine was the second eldest of three children, Eddie Lee, who preceded her in death, and the youngest Hattie Pearl. The Stovalls migrated from Mississippi to California during Lorraine’s teenage years. Lorraine attended Oroville High School where she met Mert Thomas, who became her High School Sweetheart. Lorraine finished her education, graduating from Oroville High School. She sang in an all girls goup with her friend Lela and several others, and participated in various activities, but she excelled in basketball.

Mert and Lorraine joined in union on November 5, 1950. Lorraine was blessed with seven children, daughters, Elaine Doretha, Belinda Carol, both of whom preceded her in death, Sherry Lee, Queen Yvonne, Marilyn Aletha, and Rochelle Lynn; her son Michael Ellery, and a niece Cassandra Beanita, whom she cared for; and God children Janice Huelett and Carl Whitfield.
She was a devoted wife and a nurturing mother, and grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved being with her family. She was also devoted to God. She sang in the church choir and became a missionary. When her husband became the minister of Taylor Memorial, she stepped into the First Lady position but also continued her missionary activities. Lorraine worked at Pacific Coast Producers for 40 years until her retirement in the mid 1990’s. She also worked seasonally at the Olive Plant. She also worked along side her husband at different engagements as he was a bartender. When Mert became the Mayor of Oroville, she became the First Lady of Oroville, as well as a devoted member of the Minister Wives Organization of the CME Episcopal Church. She stood by Mert until they both retired.

Her Farewell Service… A Visitation for Lorraine will be held on Tuesday August 22 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ramsey Funeral Home, 1175 Robinson Street in Oroville, whom arrangements have been entrusted to, 530-534-3877. Her Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday August 23 at 11:00 AM at the Southside Community Center, 2959 Lower Wyandotte Road in Oroville.