Loretta Jean Graley Converse

Loretta was born in Charleston, WV, on July 21, 1942, to Ruth and Gilbert Graley. Growing up she lived in several states, but her favorite place was the desert southwest. She made Tucson, AZ her home for the past 30 years with her daughter Peri Lane.

Loretta had a passion for writing and was working on her life story. She had a life full of experiences others might relate to and wanted to share them in her own book.

When she was younger, she worked as a model as well as a singer. She later worked in property management for many years. Her last position she worked as a receptionist where she loved the people she worked with and called them friends. She enjoyed her work and talking with the residents. Loretta had a great sense of humor, and it gave her joy to make people laugh.

Loretta had a soft heart for animals, she loved her Chihuahua’s who were her babies. She loved all dogs and never met one that didn’t love her back. Horses were also a part of her life for many years. When she was younger, she rode in horse shows and barrel raced. In later years, she enjoyed being at the stables, feeding, cleaning and just being around horses.

She was kind and caring, always helping people, whether it was bringing them food or giving them a ride to the doctor, she put her faith into action for others.

Loretta was preceded in death by her mother and father Ruth and Gilbert, daughter Lori, aunts and uncles and many Graley family members.

She is survived by daughter Peri Lane, daughter Rhonda, grandson Michael. She will be lovingly remembered by family, Joann, Mary, Kena, Rita, Rosa, and many other family and friends.

My Mom, my best friend. There are not enough words to express how much you are loved and how much you are missed. I will always remember your words, “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to your local animal shelter or horse rescue in memory of Loretta. There will be a celebration of life in December. Please contact Peri Lane for more information.