Lorraine Heaton, 65, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, following a courageous journey with cancer. She leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on March 13, 1961, in Gloversville, NY, Lorraine was raised in Amsterdam, NY, where she attended St. Mary's School and graduated from Bishop Scully High School in 1979. A talented musician, she played drums professionally for approximately 12 years throughout the Capital District and while living in Florida. Music, especially rock and roll, remained one of her lifelong passions.

In 1988, Lorraine began an 11-year career with CDTA's STAR paratransit department, where her dedication and hard work led her to advance to the position of Superintendent of STAR. During those years, she formed lifelong friendships with Mary Dipierro, Brenda Comstock, and Carol Dixon. It was also at CDTA that Lorraine met Michele, who would become her wife and partner of 32 years. In 1999, Lorraine began her career with CSX Freight Railroad in Selkirk, NY, where she worked for 24 years before retiring in 2023.

Lorraine loved fishing, snorkeling, motorcycles, nature, and wildlife. She enjoyed making birdhouses and gave every one of them away as a gift. Lorraine and Michele loved traveling to Maine in the fall, but they were homebodies at heart, and Lorraine was happiest simply being home with those she loved.

One of the greatest joys of Lorraine's life was her beloved niece, Kassandre Murdock. From the day Kassandre was born, they shared an extraordinary and unbreakable bond. Kassandre was truly the sunshine in Lorraine's life.

Lorraine also adored her 17-year-old cat, Cooper, once a feral cat whom Lorraine and her family lovingly cared for until he became part of their family.

Lorraine is survived by her beloved wife and partner of 32 years, Michele; her cherished niece, Kassandre Murdock; her two brothers, who reside in Amsterdam, NY; several stepbrothers and stepsisters; her nephews and nieces; and her loving in-law family.

She was predeceased by her mother, Carol Rozycki Loeber, and her father, William L. Heaton.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Younes and the dedicated nursing staff at New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH) in Troy, NY, for their compassionate care, kindness, and support throughout Lorraine's years with cancer; to nurses Emma and Katherine, along with the entire nursing staff of the 5th Floor Brady Farrell Unit at St. Peter's Hospital, for their exceptional care, compassion, and dedication; and to the hospice nurses, whose gentle care and support brought comfort and dignity to Lorraine and her family.

Lorraine will be remembered for her generous heart, her music, her love of nature, and the joy she found in the people and simple pleasures she loved most.

Calling hours for Lorraine will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 from 11am to 1 pm at Our Lady of Victory Church, 55 N Lake Ave Troy, NY 12180. A Liturgy of the Word will follow at 1 pm at the church. Graveside services will be private.

Family and friends are invited to bring a favorite framed photo of themselves with Lorraine to share in her memory at her services.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Lorraine's name may be made to Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders, checks may be made payable to Albany Medical Center Foundation, 43 New Scotland Ave., MC-119 Albany, NY 12208.