On Christmas Day, 2024, Lorraine Joyce Overton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 80. Her life, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and community, came to a close at Enloe Hospital in Chico, California.

Born on November 28, 1944, in Corning, California, Lorraine grew up in the small town of Orland. From her earliest years, she radiated warmth and kindness, traits that would come to define her entire life. After completing school in Orland, Lorraine met the love of her life, Patrick Overton. The two married on November 3, 1962, beginning a journey of love and partnership that spanned an incredible 62 years.

For Lorraine, marriage was not just a union – it was a sacred bond. She and Pat built their life hand in hand, raising four boys who would become the center of her world. As a mother, Lorraine was tender, armed with a quick wit, a sharp eye, and occasionally, a wooden spoon. Her sons – Shawn, Shane, Shad, and Shay – were her pride and joy. Their accomplishments, their families, and their happiness were the truest reflections of her life's work.

While Lorraine's love for her family was boundless, her heart extended far beyond the walls of her home. A lifelong servant to others, Lorraine's faith and compassion drove her to dedicate countless hours to the community and her church. She was an active member of the Catholic Ladies Relief Society in Chico, holding numerous offices both locally and at the Sacramento Diocese level. Her service was not simply a duty – it was a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. Lorraine found deep fulfillment in her work, always ready to lend a hand, offer comfort, or lead with grace and humility.

In addition to her work with the church, Lorraine was a vibrant presence in the Forest Ranch community. She was a proud member of the Forest Ranch Women's Club, a spirited participant in the Red Hat Society, and a guiding force in the Forest Ranch Community Association. Lorraine and Pat spent many joyful evenings square dancing, and Lorraine found great joy in teaching religious education and mentoring engaged couples alongside Pat through the Engaged Encounter program in Fresno. She was a woman who thrived in the company of others and cherished every opportunity to bring people together.

Her greatest joy, however, remained in the simple moments – family gatherings, grandchildren's laughter, and the cherished memories created at the dinner table. Lorraine's love stretched across generations, and her legacy lives on in her 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, each carrying a piece of her boundless affection and strength.

Lorraine leaves behind her beloved Pat, her sons – Shawn (Cecelia), Shane (Theresa), Shad (Nancy), and Shay (Maynao) – as well as her brother Arthur (Margaret) Salvagno and sister Linda (Dennis) Hoffman. Though she is now reunited with her parents, Ernesto and Velma Salvagno, her brother William Salvagno, and her daughter-in-law Nancy Overton, her memory remains woven into the hearts of all who loved her.

A viewing and Rosary will be held on Thursday, January 9th, 2025, at Sweet-Olsen Family Chapel from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with Rosary said at 6:00 PM. A funeral Mass will follow on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Dominic Church, with burial at Masonic Cemetery in Orland.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the New Enloe Cancer Center – a tribute to Lorraine's generous spirit and desire to uplift others.

Lorraine's life was a testament to love and faith.  Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

Arrangements are held under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary.