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MSBC Media PlayerMedia Center
MSBCOC | In Remembrance
Gladys Lorraine Lattimore
February 19, 1934 – January 31, 2004
Gladys
Lorraine Robinson Lattimore, the oldest child of Essie Mae and the late Asbury
Robinson, was born in Baltimore, Maryland on February 19, 1934. God in His
infinite love and wisdom caller her to join the Heavenly Host on January 31,
2004 after a lengthy illness.
Lorraine received her formal education in the Baltimore City Public School System. She attended Frederick Douglas High School, where she developed and maintained many friendships through the years.
On May 16, 1953, Lorraine was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Ernest Lattimore. They enjoyed 43 years of marriage together. Their union was blessed with five children, Cynthia, Denise, Ernest Leslie (preceded her in death), Janice Lee, Carol Lorraine and Terrence Eugene.
Lorraine was employed by the Graybar Electric Company as a Receptionist/Office Assistant. The enthusiasm and professionalism she displayed in the workplace was phenomenal. Both internal and external customers looked forward to seeing and conversing with her. A reflection of the happiness she felt was captured in her voice; as she greeted callers or received visitors. Although she truly loved her job in 1992, Lorraine decided to retire after 23 years of service, which enabled her to devote even more time to her beloved Ernest and family.
"Hooks" the name given to her as a youth relished in socializing with family and friends. Many treasured hours were spent traveling, attending concerts and theatrical production, in addition to just "hanging out" at the Waxter Center. She enjoyed shopping, reading, completing puzzles, playing board games, listening to music, and dancing. Above all, the most joyous times were spent with her grandchildren. Hooks loved to laugh, have fun and of course..talk about her grandchildren! She had a real zest for life and it showed!
"Sweet Lorraine" was a modest person and good friend to many. She was well-liked and respected by her neighbors. Her love for the neighborhood was shown through the countless hours she spent working with the neighborhood associations; attending meetings, dispersing information, making phone calls and contributing in whatever manner necessary to improve the community. Her strong will, determination and faith in God gave her the fortitude needed to complete many different tasks, despite her failing health. Lorraine was compelled to do her part. Always insisting on sharing the duties and responsibilities at home, in church, and in the community, regardless of how she was feeling or her circumstances. She could be heard saying "Let me do this, I'm fine, I can do it."
Lorraine accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior, at an early age. She was baptized at the Morning Star Baptist Church, under the pastorate of the late George Jacob Garnett. As a child, she attended Sunday School and Baptist Training Union; in addition to serving on the Junior Usher Board and singing with the Girls' Chorus.
Lorraine really loved the Lord. She respected and appreciated her Pastor, a long time friend, to the utmost. The worship experiences and the fellowship of her church family were very near and dear to her. As a dedicated, chartered member of the "Star", she was actively involved in various ministries: The New Luau Committee, Music Committee, Missionary Society; Pastor's Aide, Domiciliary Committee, Vacation Church School, Women's Ministry, Samuel Ray Revival Choir, The Combined Choir, The Volunteer Choir and The Women's Day Chorus.
Lorraine received many acknowledgements and awards for her willingness to help other and positive attitude. She received a Certificate of Achievement for successfully completing C.H.A.M.P'.S; "I Can…I Will Be Happy", Healthy Program. Mama didn't dwell on her illness or make excuses, she was the eternal optimist. Negativity wasn't permitted. She always encouraged the people around her to make the best of their conditions, while continuing to stress the importance of pressing on. "The bend in the road isn't always the end of the road; it just may be the beginning of a new thing. It could very well be your transportation to a new destination".
"Mama Raine" as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren, was a quiet easygoing gentle giant, not only to her children, but also to her grandchildren who dearly loved and adored her. Being truly family focused, "Mama Raine" took great pleasure in talking, teaching and sharing stories and new experiences with them. She was never too busy to encourage or console, whatever the situation dictated. "Mama Raine" was on it and would handle it. She delighted in spoiling them and they delighted in being spoiled by her.
Lorraine taught her family to focus on the positive things in life… realizing that positive thinking would bring about positive results. "No one ever injured their eyesight looking on the bright side of things" was the constant reminder she kept in our forefront. That calm spirit and loving radiant smile stayed in tact, never dissipating even through the roughest storms of her life. The inner peace and poise that she exemplified throughout her illness was a true and distinct treatment of her unwavering faith.
Mama Raine was a hero! A real trooper! She never complained, or desired pity from anyone. She would not allow her illness to impede the work God had assigned her to do or the praise she rendered unto Him.
Gladys Lorraine Lattimore was a "Pillar of Strength" and will remain forever in our hearts. We give honor to God and thank Him for the time He allowed us to spend with her.
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