Born to William and Lula Bell Patterson on Tuesday, February 5th, 1929, she led a life full of love, service, and dedication that touched many souls.

Lorraine was raised in a nurturing family environment and later pursued her educational aspirations, graduating from Autauga County High School. She furthered her education with a Bachelor's Degree from Alabama State University, which laid the foundation for her impactful career as an educator. Lorraine devoted many years to shaping young minds working with the Talladega County Board of Education. She taught at Pine Hill School, Talladega County Training School, and B. B. Comer Elementary School, where her dedication and passion for education enriched the lives of countless students.

Beyond her professional life, Lorraine was an active and cherished member of her community. She served diligently as an usher, participated in the hospitality committee and was committed to missionary work at Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church. Lorraine was a dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. where in 1977 she helped to charter the Talladega County Alumni Chapter. Her love for decorating, reading, and working with children reflected her vibrant and nurturing spirit.

Lorraine Denson passed away on Wednesday, April 8th, 2026, at the age of 97. Lorraine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Needham Denson, Jr., her son, Derrick Antonio Denson; her parents, William and Lula Patterson; her sisters, Fannie Stoudemire, Ercile Jelks, Geradine Ledford, and Mable Tanner, as well as her brothers, Roosevelt Patterson and William Patterson.

She is survived by her grandson, Derrick Antonio Denson, II of Atlanta, GA; her stepdaughters, Annie Pearl Denson Cunningham of Oxford, AL, Nadine Richie of Anniston, AL, and Juanita (James) Wilson of Talladega, AL; her cherished great-grandchildren, Danni and Dash; her sister, Willie Bolton of California; her nieces, including her devoted care- giver, Tunya (Rolley) Jones, Debra Stoudemire, Mary Nell Denson, Alene Tanner, Yolanda McGlory and Patricia Jefferson; nephews, Carl (Carolyn) Hall, Tyrone (Sandra) Patterson, Jason Hall, Harold Hall and Robbie Jelks; her Goddaughters, Ashley J. (Danny, Jr.) Barclay of Oxford, AL, and Tangela (Kowheysi) Gaines of Atlanta, GA, will all continue to honor her legacy. Lorraine also leaves behind her special friend, Martha Thompson.