Lorraine Gilbert Fair

Lorraine Gilbert Fair passed away on May 31, 2023 in Akron, Ohio. She was 96 years old, and is survived by her loving children Michelle and Jeff (Linda); grandchildren Grayson and Arianne; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Steve and Mary Gilbert, husband Don, and brother Warren Gilbert.

Lorraine was born in Chicago, IL, moving to Akron, OH when she was 13. Lorraine told stories of taking street cars on adventures in Chicago with her girlfriends, working in Akron at the downtown Woolworths and First National Bank, and of her career as a beautician prior to her marriage to Don. After her marriage, Lorraine supported Don in running the family business, volunteered numerous places, including the Alter Guild at Holy Trinity Church, and supported many worthy charities in Akron. Don and Lorraine also had an active life as snowbirds for 20 years in La Quinta, CA, where they were active in the local community and supported several charities there.

Lorraine was a good friend to many. She had the best smile and laugh. She was classy, a lady. And, she was a tomboy. She was competitive and loved golf, wasn’t a bad bowler either. She loved animals. She loved the outdoors. She loved art and music, loved to dance and sing (although very off key - but that didn’t stop her!). She was an avid reader and absolutely loved to travel, having gone around the world twice. She loved filets, vodka, caramel, fudge and whipped cream – not necessarily in that order. She had a deep and abiding faith.

Lorraine was the rock of her family. She provided unwavering and loving support, even when telling it like it was. She didn’t have much time for fools, liars, hypocrites or shallow people. She was practical and resilient. She went through a lot, but didn’t let much of anything stop her. Cancer didn’t; hip and knee replacements didn’t; a stroke tried to, but only got so far. Same with Macular Degeneration. She was determined, stubborn, and oh so strong. But 2023 threw challenges her way that forced her to leave her home of 75 years for a new one. She made friends there, both residents and staff, who will miss her too. But her time finally came and we who love her are grateful that she’s at peace, and trust she has her voice back and is dancing with all those who went before. We’ll miss her terribly.

Friends may call on THURSDAY, June 8, 2023, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Fairlawn, OH 44333. Funeral service will commence on FRIDAY, June 9 at 11:30 AM at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 50 N. Prospect St., Akron, OH 44304. Interment immediately following in Rose Hill Burial Park.

In lieu of flowers (which she loved), please consider making a donation in Lorraine’s name to the Alter Guild at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, the Women’s Fund at Akron Community Foundation, or ACCESS.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.