Lorraine Sheaff

Lorraine Millner Black Sheaff, was born December 2, 1933 to Howard Bernard Millner and Mary Toombs Millner. She was the oldest of three girls, Bernell Millner Malloy (predeceased) and Doris Millner Carson Herbert. She was educated in the Philadelphia school system and graduated from William Penn High School for Girls.

   Immediately following her graduation, Lorraine married Colston Alexander Black, Jr. She became a stay-at-home mom to Patricia Lynn Black (Patsy) and Colston Alexander Black, III, until the youngest, “Skipper” was in junior high school. She began her career as a claims examiner with the Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation until she retired.

   She met and married Joseph W. Sheaff in May of 1968 Their union lasted until his death in 1993.

   Lorraine was a strong woman. Determined and persistent in her endeavors. If she wanted to do something nothing could stop her. But if she did not want to do something, nothing and no one could make her.

   She loved singing and, after retiring, she took singing lessons at Temple University. She volunteered as a pre-school assistant for Head Start. She also took computers classes and Spanish lessons at Community College.

   She began her Christian journey in earnest at Berean Presbyterian Church where she was ordained a Deaconess. In May 2007, under the auspices of Rev. Dr. John L. Payne, she joined Ebenezer Baptist Church. Her favorite ministry was singing on the choir.

   Lorraine was always amazed at her age and never let you forget it. She remained independent until her last day. Her prayer was to leave her home here and go directly to the table the Lord had prepared. Her prayers were answered.

   On the evening of July 10, 2024, she rested in the arms of Jesus in the comfort of her home. She was not alone and she said goodbye to the two people she always said were all she had.

   Lorraine leaves behind to mourn her,;her daughter, Patricia; her son, Colston; her sister, Doris and a host of family and friends.

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