It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lorraine Marie (Brady) Downie on December 20, 2024, at the age of 52. She was a native and resident of York, PA. Lorraine truly understood that it is more blessed to give than to receive, and her generosity knew no bounds. She was not only generous in life but also in death as an organ donor.
While Lorraine’s life may seem too short to many, those of us who were fortunate to know her understand that the impact she made on our hearts far exceeded the length of her time with us.
Lorraine was born on May 23, 1972, with a naturally sweet and kind soul, a heart of gold, and a big smile for everyone she met. She was the daughter of the late Peter A. and Elizabeth (Huben) Brady. Lorraine graduated from York Catholic High School, Class of 1990.
She was a fun-spirited soul with talents spanning many areas, including photography, where her artistic abilities shone brightly. Lorraine also had a gift for words and writing, often sharing her heartfelt thoughts on Facebook, even though she never pursued it professionally. Writing brought her peace, and her words will remain a source of comfort for those who loved her.
Lorraine had a passion for trying new recipes and would enthusiastically share countless ideas with her sisters, especially for The Brady Christmas Cookie Baking Day, held every December. If you were lucky enough to read The One, The Only Annual Brady Christmas Cookies Baking Newsletter (eight editions), her wit, love, and warmth came through in every word. In addition to her culinary adventures, Lorraine enjoyed arts and crafts, playing games on her tablet, cuddling with her dogs, and watching movies.
Some of Lorraine’s greatest joys came from her four children. Together, they created lasting memories, especially during family camping trips. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, niece, and friend, finding happiness in the simple moments spent with loved ones. Lorraine’s life was filled with laughter, love, and countless cherished memories.
Her children were her pride and joy, and not a day passed without her bragging about her “beautiful babies.” She is survived by her loving sons, Tyler Spear, Zachary Downie (Brittany), and Andrew Downie (Colleen); and her daughter, Danielle Briese. She will also be deeply missed by her grandchildren, Pandora, Elizabeth, Lexie, Marie, Temperence, Tia, Robert, Ben, and Max.
Lorraine cherished her relationship with her sisters, Diane Brady and Elizabeth Hull (David). She was preceded in death by her sister, Christine Grim, and her brother-in-law, Harold "Chip" Grim. Lorraine also treasured her brothers, Peter Brady (Susan) and Paul Brady (Charlene), who were very important to her. She leaves behind her best friend, Robin Treadway, with whom she shared a sister-like bond, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and acquaintances.
Lorraine had the biggest heart and the most beautiful smile. She possessed an uncanny ability to listen without judgment and offer sage advice, which helped her nieces and nephews navigate life’s challenges. Though she was private and quiet, Lorraine’s wit and sense of humor always shone through. Her sensitivity, compassion, strength, and stubbornness were all integral parts of who she was, helping her face life’s difficulties with resilience.
Lorraine touched countless lives with her kindness, as evidenced by the many heartfelt comments left on her Facebook page.
