Lorraine P. O'Connell

Born in Hoboken, NJ, Lorraine was the loving daughter of Laurence and Anna (McCormick) Piretra. Lorraine is predeceased by her beloved husband of 67 years, John P; adoring sons, John Jr. and Daniel; devoted sister, Ann, brother-in-law, Bill, brothers Dennis and Laurence and sister-in-law, Rita. Lorraine is survived by her loving children Timothy, Mary, Thomas and wife Pirkko, Ann Marie and husband Roger, Michael, Kathleen and husband Scott and sisters-in-law, Alice Miller and Mary Piretra. Lorraine was the proud grandmother of fourteen grandchildren, Matthew (Kristen), Christina (Brian), Joseph (Amanda), Emily (Abib), Kristine (Matt), Kelly, Corey (Victoria), Tiina (Dan), Casey (Cody), Ashley (Chris), Jesi (Brandon), Alexis, Aidan and Grace and nine great grandchildren, Elijah, Bashir, Julius, Miles, Hanna, Noah, Lucas, Leah and Grayson. Lorraine was also loved by many nieces and nephews.

Lorraine graduated from Saint Cecelia High School and University of Mount Saint Vincent. “Mrs. O” was well known by numerous Westwood High School students during her years of substitute teaching, while raising her family. Many of those students were former newspaper carriers, greeted by Lorraine’s warm smile while picking up their daily papers from the O’Connell’s barn. Lorraine was dedicated to her career in education and after many years of teaching, retired from Clifton High School. Lorraine lived in the Township of Washington for 67 years and was a founding and faithful member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church. Lorraine’s favorite moments were spending time with her family, sharing meals and traveling with friends. Lorraine’s love for cooking will continue to inspire her family and friends. Lorraine enjoyed many years of sailing, frequenting one of her favorite spots, Block Island, Rhode Island.

The family will receive their relatives and friends at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Tuesday, March 11 from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M. Lorraine’s life and faith will be celebrated at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 668 Ridgewood Road, Township of Washington, NJ at 10 A.M. Wednesday, March 12. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery, Airmont, NY.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org).