Lorraine (Laurie) Agnes Oldham, age 79, passed away peacefully, surrounded by friends and family on Friday, January 24, 2020. Born November 4, 1940, in Washington D.C. to Ronald (Ole Babe) and Ethel (Gill) Collinge. She was the last of five children born, earning her the affectionate nickname “Honey” by her mother Ethel. Most of her friends and family used this nickname throughout her life.
Laurie’s career involved administration work for federal and local governments and a certified nursing assistant because she loved to interact with people. She put people at ease with her quick sense of humor. If you knew Laurie, then you have a good story that makes you laugh.
Living in the Chesapeake Bay area, she enjoyed boating with her husband, Donald, and their love of the water would take them to Florida for retirement. Florida would be her final home where she loved spending time with her kids, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Although Laurie grew up in the inner city, she always had a special love for animals and was at her happiest being with them. Over the years, she has raised Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, Australian Shepherds, chickens, goats, a sheep and several species of birds. She also enjoyed gardening. Her back yard and patios were always full of beautiful flowers, lush vegetation and tasty vegetables. She was an avid canner and enjoyed teaching her daughter and son-in-law how to can as well.
Laurie was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Oldham, her brother George “Boots” Collinge, and sisters Shirley Rogers and Joan Boone. She is survived by her daughters Jennifer (Oldham) Clemons and Theresa (Hall) Price; her son James Hall; her grandchildren Candice, JR, Katherine, Bryce, Kennedy, and Cooper; her great grandchildren Bella, Brooke, Colin, and Riley; her brother, Carl Collinge and many nieces and nephews.