Lorraine Maxine Scales

Lorraine Maxine (Henderson) Scales was born on December 31, 1948, at Bellevue Hospital in New York City. She was the beloved daughter of Thelma Henderson and Frederick Houston, and was lovingly raised by her stepfather, Joseph Henderson.

When Lorraine was nine years old, her family relocated from Harlem to Queens, NY, where she grew up and built lifelong memories. From a young age, she had a passion for fashion and dreamed of becoming a designer. She attended Fashion Design High School to pursue that dream; however, she left school to give birth to her son Joseph. Determined to complete her education, Lorraine later continued her studies and proudly graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School. She then met and married Clarence Scales in 1966 and from this union, she welcomed her daughter Rachel.

In her youth, Lorraine loved to sew, often creating beautiful pieces with her own hands. She enjoyed going to the beach, traveling to see family and friends and cooking outdoors. Lorraine was very active in the Springfield Gardens community. She was a longtime member of the St. John Episcopal Church and a member of the Springfield Gardens Civic Association where she served as secretary. As the years passed, her health declined and her interests evolved, and Lorraine found joy in simply watching home improvement shows and relaxing with her favorite treats – coffee ice cream, Oreo cookies and Chinese food.

Lorraine was known as the generous aunt who never missed an opportunity to show her love. She delighted in giving thoughtful and memorable gifts, always taking the time to choose something special that would bring a smile to her nieces and nephews. Her generosity was a reflection of her loving and giving heart.

She was also known for her tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication to providing for herself and her family. She often worked multiple jobs at the same time, demonstrating remarkable strength and perseverance. Lorraine worked as a Clerk at the Queens County Courthouse in the Records Department before transitioning to the New York City Transit Authority as a Railroad Clerk in 1988. She also worked part-time at the United States Post Office and occasionally at a Women’s Shelter before relocating to Massachusetts in 1998. Through her hard work and determination, Lorraine built a life rooted in responsibility, resilience, and commitment.

Lorraine is preceded in death by her father, Frederick Houston; her mother, Thelma Henderson; her stepfather, Joseph Henderson; her sisters, Regina Ann Simmons, Joann Geraldine Bullock, and Vanessa Muriel Carter; and her brother Marktavius Wilhelm Henderson. She is also preceded in death by her great-granddaughter, Jazmyn Winston. With her passing, she marks the end of an era for her family, a generation whose strength, resilience, and love laid the foundation for those who follow.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Joseph (Charlotte) of Newport News, VA; her daughter, Rachel (Melvin) of Lynn, MA; her granddaughters, Erinn, LaToya (Michael), Morgan, and Danielle; and her grandson Joseph; and nine great grandchildren, along with a host of extended family members and loved ones.

Lorraine’s life was defined by strength, creativity, love and quiet perseverance. Affectionately called “Yane” she held a special place in the hearts of those closest to her. She faced life’s challenges with courage and grace, always striving to create stability and opportunity for those she loved. Her warmth, generosity, determination, and enduring spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Werst & Labella Funeral Home, 71-41 Cooper Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385 on March 21, 2026, from 9-10am, followed by a Service from 10-11am.