LORRAINE DELL

1937 - 2014

DELL--Lorraine Langfan, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday morning, February 13, 2014. She was born in New York City on August 5, 1937. Lorraine is survived by her husband Alex, her son Steven and his wife Jamie, her son Michael and his wife Susan, her son Adam, and her ten grandchildren: Jordan, Kira, Madeline, Alexa, Olivia, Zachary, Juliette, Jacob, Krishna and Julian. She is also survived by Marci Dell and by her uncle, William K. Langfan. Lorraine graduated from Baruch College in New York City, with a major in economics. After Lorraine and Alex married in 1959, Alex enlisted in the Army and they were stationed in Killeen, Texas. There was no employment for an economist in Killeen, so Lorraine became a second grade teacher. After Killeen, Lorraine and Alex lived in New York City for one year and then moved to Buffalo where their first son, Steven, was born. Lorraine and Alex lived the life of graduate students and enjoyed raising their newborn son. In 1962, Lorraine and Alex packed their bags and headed to Houston. Lorraine blossomed there and had a second son, Michael, followed by a third son, Adam. She and Alex developed friendships in Houston that would last the rest of their lives. Lorraine later returned to her interest in economics and became a stock broker. She was the first woman broker at her Paine Webber office in Houston and one of the most successful. Lorraine was active in the community, chairing programs at the Jewish Community Center, and serving on the boards of the Anti-Defamation League, MD Anderson, The Aspen Institute and the Houston Symphony. Throughout their lives Lorraine and Alex traveled the world but what she loved most was returning to New York City to connect with friends and family. She also loved Aspen where they have a home and many friends. She was the guiding light that steered her family and set it on an admirable path. Lorraine easily made friends who remain deeply devoted to her, because she was happy, perceptive, caring and loyal. Grandma Lorraine, as she is known by her grandchildren, was preceded in death by her parents, Hilda and Rubin Langfan and her sister, Judith Shilling. Her entire family, including numerous nieces, nephews and cousins mourn her passing. Each one adores her and always looked to her for guidance in their lives. Lorraine's final three years were plagued with serious illness and various medical challenges. Lorraine was brave, tenacious and tough through all she endured. Her children, grandchildren, everyone who knew her were inspired by her constant positive attitude and her intellect. She pushed herself to overcome many obstacles and challenges. Lorraine was nick-named "Mama Warrior" by her family, because she was fierce and determined. The family wishes to express gratitude to all of the nursing and medical staff at Methodist Hospital, as well as Dr. Kim Bloom, Dr. Stuart Dobbs and Dr. Stuart Yudofsky. Special thanks go to her caregivers, Melly Rocha, Consuela Medrano, Maria Martinez, Solange Mariani, Tracie Hartman and to her longtime friend and companion Malua Barnes. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2014 at 10:30am at Congregation Beth Yeshurun. After the Synagogue service a private interment will take place at Beth Yeshurun Post Oak Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Lorraine would be honored if donations were made to The Jewish Federation of Houston or the Houston Symphony.