Lorraine Borthwick

Lorraine C. Borthwick, of Duryea, passed away in her sleep peacefully, yet unexpectedly, Saturday, July 12, at home. Born in Scranton, Lorraine was a daughter of the late John and Catherine (Gildea) Donelan. Raised in the South Side section of Scranton, Lorraine graduated from St. Mary of the Assumption High School and attended Pennsylvania State University's Scranton campus.

Lorraine worked for several Scranton area companies, spending the majority of her career in the information technology department at Moses Taylor Hospital for 30 years. Before joining the hospital staff, Lorraine worked at McKinney Industries, Scranton, where she met the love of her life, John "Jack" Borthwick.

As a couple, Lorraine and Jack were a perfect match. Their similarities and differences complemented one another beautifully. Together, they took great pleasure in all aspects of family life using their shared values to raise their children, Tom and Jacquelyn.

Lorraine and Jack were married nearly 30 years, but sadly their union was cut short upon Jack's passing on Aug. 13, 2001. Throughout his illness, Lorraine stood by Jack and advocated for him fiercely when he could no longer do it for himself.

Following Jack's passing, Lorraine continued to work at the hospital and also became a Eucharistic Minister at her parish, Queen of the Apostles, Avoca, where her great love of her Catholic faith grew even more. After her retirement, Lorraine helped care for her mother, continued to serve her parish, and also became a member of the Association Jeanne Jugan of the Little Sisters of the Poor at Holy Family Residence, Scranton, assisting them with fundraising and their nursing home residents.

While her volunteer work was fulfilling, the most cherished part of her retirement was becoming a grandmother. Lorraine relished her role as "Nana" to her only grandchild, J.J. She loved spending time with him and watching him grow into each stage of his life. She loved attending his activities and having him tell her all about school, Cub Scouts, baseball, basketball and everything else he loved to do.

J.J. certainly held a special place in Lorraine's heart, but with the abundant amount of love in it, her children filled the rest. Lorraine would do anything for her kids. Whenever and however they needed her, Lorraine's children could always count on her. She gave so much of herself to both of them but the best gift she gave them was their Catholic faith which they learned by the life she led.

Outside of her family life, Lorraine had a passion for government and politics. She followed each very closely and never missed the broadcasts of her favorite commentators. She also loved watching baseball games and cheering for the Phillies and Yankees. Blessed with a fantastic sense of humor, Lorraine's quick Irish wit left people laughing, lightening their lives. We are all better people for having had her in our lives. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Lorraine was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Kobal; her brother, John "Jackie" Donelan, and her two dogs, Benji and Rudy, who brought so much joy to her life.

Lorraine is survived by her son, Tom; her daughter, Jacquelyn Galvin, and her husband, Jim, and their son, James John "J.J.," all of Duryea.

She is also survived by her sister, Mary "Dolly" Costa and her husband, Robert; a brother, Thomas "Tucker" Donelan and his wife, Blanche; and sister-in-law, Marian Donelan, all of Scranton. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins whom she loved very much.

Funeral services will begin at 8:45 a.m. Friday from Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Old Forge. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. in Queen of the Apostles Parish at St. Mary Church, 715 Hawthorne St., Avoca, by the Rev. Thomas J. Petro, J.C.L., KCHS, pastor. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Avoca.

Family and friends may pay their respects from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to several charities which Lorraine held close to her heart: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, Tenn., 38105; Blue Chip Animal Refuge, 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, Pa. 18612, or St. Joseph's Center, 2010 Adams Ave., Scranton, Pa. 18509.

Visit the funeral home's website for directions or to leave a condolence.