Lorraine Louise Lewis, affectionately known as Rainy, passed away peacefully at her home in Des Moines, Iowa, on May 12, 2026. Born on July 17, 1926, in Spirit Lake, Iowa, Lorraine lived a life marked by love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Throughout the years, Lorraine dedicated herself to supporting her family in countless ways. She was a loving partner who assisted her husband, Edward Lewis, with his refrigeration and appliance business, providing both practical help and encouragement. Her role as a caregiver was nothing short of extraordinary; she nurtured her children, grandchildren, elderly mother, mother-in-law, and other family members with grace, tenderness, and a steadfast heart. Her home was a sanctuary where love and compassion were always freely given.

Known for her joyful spirit, Lorraine possessed a deep love of music that overflowed into every corner of her life. One of her cherished joys was listening to and dancing along with the tunes her husband Ed played, as well as her daughter Shirley and several of her grandchildren who shared musical gifts. Whether the melodies came from vocals, guitar, piano, or flutes, Lorraine embraced them with pure delight. She often watched her husband’s band performances and even showed remarkable patience during the basement rehearsals. Her radiant presence graced numerous music programs, sporting events, graduations, and family weddings—always calm, helpful, and encouraging.

Lorraine’s warmth extended beyond family and music. She loved watching television programs featuring music, particularly country genres. Her affection for animals was evident in the way she cared for her own pets and those of her grand pets , taking joy in teaching them tricks. One could often find her sharing long walks filled with heartfelt conversation, moments treasured by all who accompanied her. Traveling was another joy, and she was fortunate to see places like Colorado, Missouri, South Dakota, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and even to spend several weeks in Egypt with her eldest daughter Carolyn and husband Ghanim. Having lived in California, Illinois, Missouri, and ultimately coming back to Iowa, Lorraine embraced each chapter with an adventurous spirit—once delighting in plane rides piloted by her husband Ed.

Beyond these beautiful memories, Lorraine’s personality shone brightly as a caring, kind, and health-conscious woman. She was quick with a hug and a listening ear—a balm to anyone in need. Her love was also expressed through her hobbies: crocheting intricate bedspreads, scarves, hats, and throws; engaging in exercise; immersing herself in reading and researching topics ranging from world events to health and religion; and most importantly, spending meaningful time with family and beloved pets. Her beauty—both inside and out—left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Lorraine was immensely proud of the large and loving family she raised, supporting each member’s journey and nurturing grandchildren along the way. She also took pride in expanding her skills, learning business methods, typing, and navigating modern computers—an inspiration to many.

Her final year was shadowed by an aggressive and untreatable ovarian cancer, a challenge she faced with courage and poise, emblematic of the strength that defined her entire life.

Lorraine is lovingly remembered by her daughters Carolyn Naayem, Barbara Ritz, Shirley VanPelt (Alan), Lynda Pettis (Steve), and Jerrilyn Reed (David); her son Edward Lewis (Sherry); and her treasured grandchildren Laith Naayem, Dustin Ritz, Edward D. Lewis (Mary Ann), Keri Wellman, Nemir Naayem, Steve Pettis, Reina Paulson, Matthew White (Ann Downey)Lee Anna Pettis, Danielle Kastner (Joseph), and Brandon Reed (Shayla). She is also survived by her sister-in-law Jerilynn Corbin, and thirteen great-grandchildren. Along with many nieces and nephews Her beloved cat Miracle shared in her affection and companionship.

Lorraine Louise Lewis joined those who went before her: husband Edward Lewis; children Virginia White and Gerald Lewis; son-in-law Ghanim Naayem; former son-in-law Ronnie White; parents George Dewey Corbin and Julia Corbin; mother- and father-in-law Anna and Frank Lewis; and siblings George Corbin (Jean), Leroy Corbin (Carolyn), Norman Corbin (Helen), Walter Corbin, Jerry Corbin (Eunice), Donald Corbin, Shirley Lewis (Charles), Phyllis Jones, Marilyn Schultz, Eva Lula Woods- Corbin Sublette(sister), Edward Dewey Woods-Corbin (brother),Lydia Grace Woods-Corbin Bailey (sister) as well as her beloved dogs Scrappy, Jack, Annie, Heidi and cats Tuffy, Tommy and Patches.

We all feel profoundly blessed to have shared our lives with Lorraine for so many treasured years. Her legacy of love, kindness, and music will forever echo in the hearts of her family and all who were touched by her gentle spirit.