Lorraine E. DeRize

Lorraine E. DeRize “Gigi” passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, at Mount St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston. She was 88 years old. Born on December 29, 1936, in Niagara Falls, NY, Lorraine was the cherished daughter of the late Clifford and Evelyn Averell.

Lorraine was a proud graduate of Wilson High School, Class of 1954, and earned her teaching degree from SUNY Brockport in 1958. She began her teaching career at the Red Brick School House in Lewiston, where she taught first grade before moving to California to continue her passion for teaching. She retired in 1997 from Monte Vista Elementary in West Covina, CA. Lorraine's warmth, dedication to her family, and passion for teaching will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

Lorraine married her beloved husband, Lloyd Raymond DeRize, in California. They shared many wonderful years together until Lloyd's passing on September 14, 1996. After retiring, Lorraine moved back to Niagara County in 2001. She became a dedicated member of the Ransomville Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lorraine found joy in traveling, especially going on cruises.

Predeceased by her loving son, Kristopher DeRize, and her dear siblings, Maxine Bentley, Carol (late Sidney) Jeffrey, and Sharon Zimmerman, Lorraine leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Karen (Maximo) Flores; cherished granddaughters, Suzzana (Brett) Cramer and Lynette (Nathan) Rampado; and adored great-grandchildren, Angelina, Adrian, Analee, Sophia, Averiella, and Charlotte Rose. She is also survived by her caring brother-in-law’s, Harry Bentley and Russell Zimmerman, as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family will be present to receive friends on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 5-7 PM at Hardison Funeral Homes, Inc., 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville, where Funeral Services will follow at 7 PM. Friends are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Lorraine's honor to the Ransomville Fire Company.

Please share condolences at HARDISONFUNERALHOMES.com.