Lorraine Allen Rose, known to her loved ones as Rain, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, at Heritage Hospice in Marietta, Georgia. She was 59 years old.
Born on January 23, 1965, in Atlanta, Georgia, Lorraine was the daughter of Theresa Ray Chandler and Robert T. Allen. Encouraged in athletics from an early age, Lorraine became the youngest person to have ever run the Atlanta Marathon at the time (1979) and excelled in track and long-distance running throughout her school years. She graduated from Trenton High School in Michigan in 1983 before pursuing Chemical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. She later studied Theatre at Georgia State University, blending her analytical mind with her creative spirit.
Lorraine met the love of her life, Jimmy Rose, at DramaTech Theatre during a production of David Mamet's "The Blue Hour." Their love blossomed during a production of Moliere's "Tartuffe," and they married in 1994. Together, they shared 30 beautiful years, raising three children-Ashton Jesse (Jess) Rose, Joseph Andris (Joey) Rose, and Michael Juris Rose-and welcoming four grandchildren: Christian, James, Jade, and Levi.
A multi-talented individual, Lorraine wore many hats throughout her life. She worked for her family's industrial chemical company, served as editor for the Townelaker magazine, and took on the role of Receiving Manager at Archivers. Most recently, she pursued her passion for literature as an independent bookseller with the team at Fox Tale Book Shoppe in Woodstock.
Lorraine's contributions extended far beyond her professional life. She was an original member of the Let's Try This! improv group and co-founder of Engineer's Theatre, where her creativity shone in projects like the original jukebox musical "Late Nite Special." She was a tireless activist and community leader, holding positions of First Vice Chair and Chair of the Cherokee County Democratic Committee and founding the Art Instigation Society. Her dedication to the rights of marginalized groups and her efforts to build inclusive communities left a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Those who knew Lorraine remember her as a person of high integrity and unwavering values. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed and cared for, whether at a family gathering or a community event. Lorraine always found ways to be of service, embodying generosity and kindness in every interaction.
Lorraine is preceded in death by her mother and stepfather. She is survived by her devoted husband, her children and grandchildren, her brother Robert H. Allen, her stepmother Keri Allen, and her father Robert T. Allen.
A memorial service will be held on January 25, 2025, at Lakeside Funeral Home, 121 Claremore Drive, Woodstock. Visitation is at 2:00pm with the celebration of life following at 3:00pm. Flowers are welcome, but donations may be made to Ekubo Ministries (
http://www.ekuboministries.org) and Moms Demand Action (
https://momsdemandaction.org) in her honor.
Lorraine's light, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Published by The Cherokee Tribune on Jan. 23, 2025.