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 knew that it was more blessed to give than to receive. Her generosity knew no bounds. She was not only generous in life, but also in death as an organ donor.

While Lorraine's life would seem too short to many, those of us who were blessed to be touched by her understand that her existence and the imprint she left on our hearts exceeded the quantity of time that she stayed here.

Lorraine was born 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.

Lorraine was a fun spirited soul and talented in so many aspects of her life, one of which included photography. She had incredible artistic talent. She was also a genius with words and writing, even though she never pursued that path. Many have seen her posts on Facebook. She found comfort and peace in expressing herself through her writings. As we grapple with the loss of her physical presence, may we find solace in knowing that her spirit lives on through her writings and the love she instilled in us.

Lorraine loved trying new recipes, sending her sisters endless numbers of recipes to try, especially for The Brady Christmas Cookie Baking Day, which took place one weekend every December. If you were privileged to read The One, The Only Annual Brady Christmas Cookies Baking Newsletter (eight editions) her wit, love and compassion were felt throughout her words. Aside from that, Lorraine enjoyed playing games on her tablet, arts and crafts, and cuddling with her dogs and watching movies.

Some of her greatest joy came from her four children. They created many memories while enjoying camping trips as a family.

Lorraine was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, niece, and friend who found true joy in the simple moments spent with her loved ones. She lived a life filled with laughter, love, and countless precious memories.

Her children were her life. There was never a day that went by she did not brag about all four of her beautiful babies. Lorraine is survived by her loving sons, Tyler Spear, Zachary Downie (Brittany) and Andrew Downie (Colleen), and a daughter, Danielle Briese. She will be missed by her grandchildren, whom she loved deeply, 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 (Susan) and Paul (Charlene), as they were very important to her. She also leaves behind her BFF, Robin Treadway, with whom she shared a special sister bond, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, countless friends and acquaintances.

Lorraine had the biggest heart and the most beautiful smile. She had an uncanny ability to listen without judgment, offering sage advice that helped her nieces and nephews get through the challenges of growing up. She was a private and quiet person, but also very witty and fun! She was sensitive and incredibly compassionate. She was strong-willed and stubborn, but those traits defined Lorraine. They were part of who she was, and her strength undoubtedly helped her deal with life's challenges.

Lorraine touched countless lives with her unwavering compassion, as evidenced by the comments left on her Facebook page.

A visitation with family and friends will take place on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at Wagner-Elfner and Burg Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 134 W. Broadway, Red Lion. A funeral service for Lorraine will begin at 7:00 pm with Deacon Kenneth Hamilton officiating. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.