Lorraine S Tortorella

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Lorraine S. Tortortella (nee Mitola), a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who left this world on December 12, 2024. She was a young 80 years of age.

Lorraine was the devoted mother of Lisa Scarpa, her husband Joe, Tracy Walsh, her fiancé Paul, Frank Gibbons, Brian Gibbons, and his wife Trish. Cherished Nana of Joseph, his husband Jay, Jake and Jack Scarpa, Paige and Todd Walsh, Brandon, Briana and Hailey Gibbons.  Dear sister of Philomena Mitola. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and an extended family that stretches far and wide, each of whom carries a piece of her love in their hearts. Lorraine was pre-deceased by her parents, Peter and Rose Mitola, two sisters and five brothers. 

Born to Peter and Rose, Lorraine experienced the pain of losing her mother too soon, but she was blessed to be surrounded by a large, loving family who helped raise her with care and warmth. She was blessed with a tight-knit family with many older siblings who lived for a good game of cards and a glass of wine. 

Lorraine raised her four children, pouring her heart and soul into their upbringing. Her dedication to her family was unwavering, and she often spoke of her pride in her children, eagerly introducing them to everyone she met. She worked tirelessly, always ensuring her home was a safe, welcoming place for her kids and anyone else who entered her door.

Known for her booming voice, which could fill a room with warmth and love, Lorraine wielded a wooden spoon not only to stir hearty meals but also to keep her boys in line, especially when they deserved it. Her cooking was legendary, and her kitchen was the heart of the home, filled with love, laughter, and wonderful meals that fed many over the years. Lorraine adored spending time with her grandchildren, pouring her love and care into every moment.

She was a hard worker, spending 30 years at the South Orange Shop-Rite, where everyone knew her name and felt the warmth of her infectious enthusiasm. Later in life, she took on a new role as a crossing guard, where she became a beloved figure in her community, greeting every child as if they were her own. 

The door to Lorraine’s home was always open, and whether it was family, neighbors, or stray friends of her kids who needed a meal or a moment of kindness, she never turned anyone away. She had a gift for making everyone feel like part of her family, and the kids in the neighborhood all knew her as a second mother, welcomed and loved in her home. 

A celebration of Lorraine's life will be held with a Memorial Mass to be held at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel Church - 75 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls on Thursday, December 19th at 2 pm, immediately followed by a repast at The Hanover Manor - 16 Eagle Rock Avenue, East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lorraine’s name to the Alzheimer's/ Dementia Association, see the donation box below for details…..

Rest in peace, Lorraine. You will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.

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