Lorraine June McBride

Obituary for Lorraine June McBride (née Barry)

Loving Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Mentor, and Friend

Lorraine June McBride (née Barry) of Waldwick, formerly of Ridgewood, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on November 23, 2024, at the age of 91, surrounded by loved ones. Her life was a beautiful testament to kindness, strength, and an unshakable devotion to the people she held dear.

Born on June 1, 1933, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Lorraine grew up in a warm and close-knit family alongside her sister, Audrey. The family moved to the Bronx, where Lorraine attended Cathedral High School, beginning a journey of education and personal growth that would last her lifetime. She went on to earn her degree from Hunter College, where she discovered her passion for learning - a pursuit she would never abandon.

Lorraine's career was as dynamic and inspiring as her life. After graduating, she began her teaching career, first as a grammar school teacher, and later as an instructor at a local community college. A lifelong learner, she went on to earn a master's degree in finance from Fordham University, an accomplishment that marked a new chapter in her career. She embraced the world of finance as a stockbroker and later transitioned into the field of computer sales, constantly seeking new opportunities and challenges with enthusiasm.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lorraine's heart was devoted to her family. A true adventurer at heart, she and her beloved husband, Bill, shared an extraordinary 68 years of marriage filled with a shared love of travel. Their first grand adventure together was a nine-month honeymoon around the world in 1956 - a journey that set the stage for many more trips.

Lorraine's love for her family was boundless. She was a mother and grandmother in the truest sense of the word - nurturing, supportive, and endlessly giving. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious food, as Lorraine was an exceptional cook and hostess. She was also an avid tennis and paddle tennis player, a golfer, a skier, and a lover of line dancing. Her creativity shone in many ways, particularly through her sewing, a passion she shared by teaching others.

Lorraine's generosity of spirit was not limited to her family. She was a mentor and friend to many, offering wisdom, support, and a listening ear to anyone in need. Her kindness and strength were a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew her.

Lorraine is survived by her loving husband, William McBride; her children, Mary and her husband Peter Duran, Bill, Stephen, Anne Brabant and her husband Kent, and her grandchildren, Madeleine, Lorraine, Ava, and Kent. She was predeceased by her sister, Audrey.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers whose compassion and dedication brought comfort to Lorraine in her final years (Joan, Dorrette, Debbie, Olalia and Raphie).

A celebration of Lorraine's remarkable life will be held on Sunday, December 22, 2024 from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at 243 Sunset Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450. Friends and family are invited to visit anytime during these hours to share in the joy of remembering Lorraine, her beautiful spirit, and the legacy she leaves behind. All are welcome.

Friends wishing to honor Lorraine are invited to make a donation in her memory to Valley Hospital Foundation's Hospice Care.

https://www.valleyhospitalfoundation.org/donate Please designate Hospice Care.