She earned a B.S. in Commerce at the Florida State College for Women (later renamed Florida State University.) After graduation she worked for the Tennessee Eastman Company, then became executive director of the Kingsport Girl Scout Council. When her parents Robert Franklin and Ruth retired, Lorraine assumed management of The R. F. Leedy Company, a retail store on Park Avenue in Winter Park. During those years she volunteered for the Girl Scouts, leading hiking and camping trips plus travels in Europe.
In 1962 she married Alfred B. Stewart (“Jack”) then sold the Leedy store to a family friend. She was widowed in 1985. Lorraine enjoyed traveling; England, China, Switzerland, Norway, Japan, Hawaii, and New Zealand were among the destinations. From time to time she hosted students and others from abroad in her home.
Friends and family enjoyed seeing the beautiful antiques, art, and handcrafts that she collected. Penny, a Boston terrier, was a lively companion for many years. After moving to a retirement community, she volunteered weekly at the bookstore in the local public library. She loved music and could sing the alto part of many songs until the end of her life. Lorraine passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on November 15, 2019.
She is survived by her sister-in-law Grace Leedy, nieces and nephews Ruth Carr (John), Rollean DelRio, Virginia Catley (Glenn), Loreen Leedy (Andrew), Robert Leedy (Rebecca), and great-nieces/nephews Sarah Hunter (Alex), Caleb Clarke Leedy (Bethany), Deborah Leedy, and Anna Leedy.
A service will be held at 10 am on Saturday, December 7 at Winter Park Presbyterian Church, with refreshments afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winter Park Public Library - New Leaf Bookstore.
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