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Lorraine F. Southern Newton passed away peacefully on February 10, 2022 in Gainesville, GA at the age of 93. As a wife, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother she is survived by her husband, Clarence L. Newton of Gainesville, GA; her sister, Yvonne Crawford of Missoula, MT; her son, Thomas H. Southern of Naples, FL; her daughter, Julie S. Carlisle of Gainesville, GA; her son, David J. Southern of Spring Hill, TN; as well as her grandchildren, Lacie Carlisle, Paul Carlisle, Darcy Southern, Molly Southern, Leah Southern; and great granddaughters, Charlize Carlisle and Calli Carlisle.
Lorraine was born March 16, 1928 in Syracuse, NY and spent her early life there until her high school years when her family began traveling to Miami, FL for the winter season. She then attended high school there as well as in Syracuse. Eventually she married Houston Southern in Miami and together they raised four children. Lorraine relocated to the Northeast GA area to be closer to family, where she met and married Clarence Newton for the final chapter of her life. Lorraine was a positive spirit who enjoyed life, people, and socializing; always warm, welcoming, and complimentary of others. As a capable, strong, independent, woman she served as a role model for many whose lives she touched. She held various positions throughout her life, but worked longest as a real estate agent in Gainesville, GA as well as Young Harris, GA. She was an avid reader, and enjoyed knitting, cooking, sewing and gardening. Her loving spirit will be carried on by those of us who knew and loved her.
A private celebration of her life will be held by her family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge, PO Box 444, Hiawassee, Georgia 30546. Lorraine loved the Gardens and she and her husband walked them regularly while living in Young Harris, GA.
The family invites you to leave a condolence or share a fond memory.
Jim Heick says
I always enjoyed your Mom’s company. From the first time I met her she truly was always warm and welcoming. Capable, strong, independent, indeed! Kudos to her for passing these traits on to her children. What a great Mom! Sending love, J
Yvonne Crawford says
The years have passed but not the memories.
Robin Vasani i says
May she now rest in peace. Find comfort in knowing that she was loved and her memories are etched upon your heart. You have been Blessed in having her in her long life. Prayers for healing!
Ellie Ariapour says
I never forget her sweet face her beautiful smile and all the kind words. She has a very special place in Heven.
Maren O. Mitchell says
From our first meeting, Lorraine was my friend. So rare in any time, she was a true lady, a strong will governed by a kind heart. As long as I live she will remain with me, smiling and sparkling – full of life and love.
Mary E Rosseau says
Julie, I was sorry to hear that your mom passed. She was a very sweet lady.
Mary Ricketson says
What a great loss. I’m happy to have known Lorraine. When she would attend poetry events with Clarence, I always felt a connection of loving friendship. I admired Lorraine. I send hugs and hope to all the family.
Michael E. Dirse says
Julie, I am so grateful to not only have had the pleasure of meeting your Mom, but seeing the two of you together. She loved you so dearly and your love for her is best expressed in noting all that you did to care for her. Her eyes spoke with a sparkle that always lit the conversation. Her warm smile showed her unmistakable compassion and understanding. Mostly, it was her capacity to care for others in a way that not only inspired but enlightened, evidenced by the beautiful words and sentiments so graciously being expressed. Her strength carries us all to a better place. I have a feeling she is smiling that smile of hers still as she sees all the love being sent her way.
Sue Barnes says
As I reflect on my fondest memories of Aunt Lorraine, my mother’s big sister, Gram’s first born, I remember how special she was to us all. She was the complete package that many admired. She had a generosity of spirit that made everyone feel special. I know, I did. I can still hear her voice when she said my name. It was such a sweet invitation of love. I am sad that she has passed but my fondness and love continues. My deepest condolences to all the family.
Love, Sue
Hugs to all!
Karen McKin says
Lorraine was a special person, so very proud to have known her and had the pleasure of working with her at Mountain Realty. Her loving spirit was always showing, she always had positive vibes. I loved hearing of her adventures with Clarence, and consider it a honor to have known them both. My deepest sympathies to all her family. Love to all. Karen McKin
NANCY N WALL says
Aunt Lu was my mother’s big sister and “mom” to her. My mom said that Aunt Lorraine was always cleaning her up and fixing her hair as mom was such a “tom boy” and a mess!
Lu was kind, smart, creative, beautiful and adventurous. (Sounds like some other people I know!) She was always affectionate to me and told me I had “the most beautiful eyes”. She loved to see our family get together.
I am sending hugs and love.
Susan Amsbary Ruddy Murphy says
Lorraine was a special neighbor and friend I met where I lived 0n 37th St. in Miami, Florida. We shared the pleasures of raising our children together as I children attended the same school, Olympia Heights, which was just a few blocks from where we lived. Lorraine was a past master at always saying something complimentary about you when she saw you. And she was very up to date on everything and was such a good friend. Her kids and mine often played together. I am so sorry she has left us, but I have wonderful memories of her.
White Cindy says
Julie ,Tom and David I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Lorraine always made me want to know more about her. I loved listening to the stories of her life adventures. I will miss the stories and the endearing sparkle in her eyes as talked of her children.
Lorraine will be missed many.