Lorraine Adeline Williams

Lorraine Adeline Williams passed away on February 21, 2026, at the age of 97. Born February 12, 1929, in Kramer, North Dakota, Lorraine was a spirited, devoted, active, and loving presence in the lives of all who knew her.

Lorraine was the third of eight children, including Arvella Skurdal, Ivan Kaeding, Marilyn Pederson, Joella Gullstrand, Darvin Kaeding, Margaret Lachenmeier, and Galen Kaeding.

After graduating from high school, Lorraine left Kramer to attend Minot State University, where she obtained an emergency teaching certificate after completing two years—launching what became a remarkable 35-year worldwide teaching journey. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Minot State during summer sessions and taught in North Dakota, Montana, Washington, and California before teaching overseas in Iceland, Japan, and Taiwan. After taking several years off to raise her children, she finished her career with 19 years of teaching in Bellevue, Nebraska. Throughout her career, Lorraine taught grades 1 through 4, shaping young lives with steady dedication and heart.

Lorraine was a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Papillion, where she was an active and devoted member. She participated in many aspects of church life, but her greatest joy was teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School to children—sharing faith, kindness, and encouragement in ways that stayed with them.

She found happiness in bowling and golf, woodworking, yardwork, and, most of all, spending time with her friends and her grandchildren. Lorraine’s days were marked by energy, warmth, and a genuine delight in the people around her.

Lorraine died on February 21, 2026, in Gretna, Nebraska, in her room in memory care. The family would like to thank all those who visited Lorraine in her last days, as well as the amazing staff who cared for and loved her while she was in memory care.

Lorraine is survived by two children: Louis Williams and wife Kenda Williams of Houston; and Molly Ely and husband Russell Ely of Papillion. She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Tyler Williams, Makenzie Williams, and Deavon Bolton (Kent) of Houston; and Troy Ely, Andrew Ely, Reese Ely (Elia), and Alexis Ely of Papillion.

A Gathering for Family and Friends will be held at 9:30am at First Lutheran Church located at 420 N Washington Street, Papillion, NE 68046. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 10:30am at First Lutheran Church located at 420 N Washington Street, Papillion, NE 68046. Reception to follow.