Lorraine A. Johnson, 87, passed away March 10, 2026, surrounded by her family after her courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 21, 1938, at the family home in Belvidere, Illinois. On July 20, 1959, she wed Paul “Red” Johnson. Their shared “love story” spanned six decades until his passing in 2019.

Lorraine was a devoted wife and mom. Her pride and joy were in her family. She was the best confidante, known for her loyalty, a “pinch” of stubbornness, and an ever-present sense of humor.

Her favorite place for her and our dad was their home away from home, St. Germain, Wisconsin, where countless memories were made. She and Paul loved to go on adventures and made the most of life. Her heart was generous and kind to anyone or animal needing help. She had no tolerance for cruelty of any kind and was quick to remind that manners are everything; she always said, “they’re free... use them.”

Becoming an Abba and grandma was a huge sense of pride. And then an Abba again… and the biggest bonus was her title of great grandma. When Lorraine was 81 the family got another surprise, she had decided to be a mom again to her precious little morkie, Bella. She was a cherished friend to many, and a source of endless love. She will be forever loved and missed.

She is survived by those who cherished her most, her daughter Paula (Dave) Sherman, son Curtis (Heide) Johnson; beloved grandchildren Danielle, Sara (Trevor), and Nicholas (Paityn); great grandchildren Olivia (“sweet baby girl”) and Svea; her sister-in-law Gloria Dickson; numerous nieces and nephews; her beloved Bella, and her grandpup Zoey; her bonus son Mike, adopted granddaughter Tina, her special friend, Raquel, and so many others. Predeceased by her beloved husband Paul; her parents George and Maude; and six siblings.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial service, 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. A very heartfelt thank you to the staff at the Serenity Hospice and Home, as well as the Carbone Cancer Center, for all of the genuine care, love and support that was shown to Lorraine and our family. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to be made to the Serenity Home and Hospice.