LaRayne F. Andersen Obituary
LaRayne "Lorraine" Andersen, 95, of Gloucester, passed away peacefully Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Seacoast Nursing Home. She was one of eight children of the late Alfred Muise and Mary (White) Muise. Her father was lost at sea when she was eight years old. As the oldest child of a young widow, she helped her mother at home with her siblings and left school early to help support the family.
Like many women of her time she started work in the fishing industry. Later she worked as a house cleaner, an Avon lady, and a variety of other jobs. She spent several years helping a friend care for her home and family during a difficult time, forging lifelong bonds.
LaRayne was a lifelong Gloucester resident and member of the Moose Lodge where she organized and participated in functions and activities, enjoyed dancing, and playing whist. She was also known for her sewing skills, doing alterations and making clothing and costumes for kids and adults.
LaRayne is survived by her children Sandy Hill (Kerry) of Beverly, Jack Hill of Palm Coast, Florida, and Beverly Merchant of Naples, Florida. She is also survived by grandchildren Kathi Hill, Kari Paszkowski (Jeff), Kraig Hill and Kristen Hill as well as great grandchildren Kirsten Johnson and Kody Paszkowski, and a great great grandchild, Kenzi Baker.
She is survived by sisters, Barbara Cameron, Jean Powers and June Stoutjesdyk. She was predeceased by siblings; Harold (Bozo) Muise, Robert Muise, Dorothy Fennell and Myra Marshall. She was also predeceased by her son-in-law, Robert Merchant. LaRayne was the widow of John M Hill and Harry Andersen, both of Gloucester. She is also survived by a large extended family.
Visiting hour will be held at the Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 9:30-10:30am. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect Street, Gloucester, at 11:00am. Interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, for those desiring, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America at http://www.dementiasociety.org or the charity of your choice.
