COURTESY ANNOUNCEMENT
Lorraine was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on June 17, 1937, to her devoted parents, Beatrice (Quintana) and Frank Giron. In 1960, she moved to Colorado with her then-husband, Fernando Valencia, and their children, Sandra and Larry. While living in the Rockies, Lorraine took on various fulfilling roles. She co-founded an international mining engineering firm with Fernando and had three more children: Valerie, Annie, and Edmond. Later, she became the Executive Secretary to the Finance Director of Littleton’s City Manager, a position she embraced enthusiastically. In 1990, Lorraine returned to her New Mexico roots, where she dedicated her skills to the New Mexico Secretary of State, the State Personnel Office, and the Santa Fe County Clerk.
Known fondly as “Gra” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Mom was part of a new generation that embraced technology and was actively involved in her community. She served on the board of the Mullen Parents Club and supported various boosters’ clubs while Edmond attended Mullen. After returning to New Mexico, Lorraine participated in and held positions with the boards of Mana del Norte, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce del Norte, and the International Quinto Centenario Toastmasters. Her impressive contributions earned her numerous accolades, including a heartfelt appreciation for her work on the PERA election committee, leading tours for international guests at the state capitol, and acting as a translator for aspiring leaders in science. She played a crucial role in the success of the New Mexico State Capitol Rededication event. Lorraine was acknowledged by Stephanie Gonzales, the New Mexico Secretary of State, for her outstanding dedication and commitment to enhancing life in the beautiful Land of Enchantment. She received the title of Colonel, Aide-De-Camp, on the Staff of the Governor of New Mexico, highlighting her exceptional contributions and dedication. At the turn of the 21st Century, Lorraine married Joshua Abraham, and together, they created whimsical art from their home in Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Lorraine instilled a strong work ethic in everyone around her, including her children, and she fostered success in friends, family, and strangers.
Lorraine peacefully passed away on November 19, 2024, in Denver, Colorado, surrounded by her family. She is reunited with her parents, Beatrice and Frank Giron, brothers and sisters, husband Joshua Abraham, an infant son, Carl, grandchild Adam Koehler, great-grandchild Eli Vargas, Heidi E. Valencia, and extended family. Her children survive her: Larry (Geri) Valencia, Sandra (Jerry) Koehler, Valerie (Tammy) Carter, Edmond Valencia, and Annie Valencia; her grandchildren Megan (Tyler) Brookhart, Malinda (Matt) Ray, Ashleigh (Bill) Carter, Lindsey Valencia, Tony Valencia, Emily (Ian) Carter, Allison Valencia, Ben Medina, Ashton and Samantha Vargas, Jeffrey Koehler, Isabelle and Cash Curtis, Gabby, and Ash Valencia; her great-grandchildren Ella and Cody Brookhart, Evan Koehler-Ray, Audrey Long, Luca Ray, Aeden, Alaynna, Avianna, Azalea, and Ashton Jr. Vargas, her step-daughters Catherine and Christine Sandoval along with countless loving nieces, nephews, and more.
The family expresses gratitude to her many caregivers, who demonstrated their love through language, touch, laughter, and humor. We especially thank our cousins, friends, and family for their support, help with long-distance arrangements, and prayers.
Funeral Services will be held on December 5th, 2024, at Sagrado Corazon de Jesus in Nambe, New Mexico. The Rosary will begin at 9 a.m., then Mass at 10 a.m., and the burial will follow. In place of flowers and reception, please consider making donations to
Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe del Valle de Pojoaque
9 Grazing Elk Drive
Jaconita, New Mexico 87506
Holly Heights Care & Rehabilitation Staff
6000 East Iliff Avenue
Denver, Colorado 80222
Alzheimer’s Association
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