Lora F. Laine
Sept. 26, 1938-Dec. 18, 2023
Claremont, CA

Lora Frances Barshell Laine passed away with her family at her side on December 18, 2023, at the age of 85. Lora was born on September 26, 1938 at Children’s Hospital in San Francisco, California. The youngest of two children to Edwin and Margaret Barshell. Together with her older sister, Margaret, they were raised in Burlingame, California. Lora excelled in academics at Burlingame High School, while finding the time to participate in numerous interscholastic activities. This passion for knowledge resulted in her application and acceptance at the University of California at Berkeley. Her outward demeanor and personality allowed her to run in multiple social circles, and afforded her the opportunity to join the Delta Zeta sorority that influenced her later pursuits.

Lora found her soulmate and love of her life, Edward J. Laine Sr., while attending Ed’s best friend’s bachelor party, where stories have it that she got his attention by jumping out of the presented cake. Lora and Ed tied the knot on February 4, 1960, at Saint Stevens Church in San Francisco.

They had four children (Deborah, Stephen, Elizabeth, and Edward Jr.) and lived in San Bruno, California for many years before moving to Redwood City, CA. There, on “the ranch" they encouraged the kids to help with all the birds, rabbits, goats and other animals they raised throughout their life together. Lora began as a domestic engineer, raising their four children, but her continued outward nature and interests found her landing a position at the Stanford Research Institute, where she had a long, varied, and successful career as an executive assistant to the Vice President.

Lora, Ed and the two youngest kids moved to Riverside, CA in 1981 for Ed Sr. to further his career with the California Highway Patrol. Lora’s active involvement with various volunteer (Panhellenic) and social groups (Newcomers), ensured that the family was surrounded by friends and a myriad of social activities. As outgoing and engaging as ever, Lora assumed the role of Chairperson for both organizations. This allowed her to host events that awarded academic scholarships to the youth of Riverside and the surrounding communities. Lora loved the social aspect of her community, and used every opportunity to mingle with her friends, and participate in multiple community groups.

Lora was an avid quilter. She created many magnificent quilts that she gifted to friends and family. Lora used all methods of piecing her quilts including appliqué at least once due to her dislike of the process. She leaves behind textile remembrances to those she loved.

Lora was a loving mother, and a caring human who had an abundance of compassion for others. She was kind, warmhearted and always showed dignity and respect to the people she encountered throughout her life. Lora enjoyed traveling - from the family-friendly, four kids and a dog summer vacations around the United States in an RV, to the various river cruises in Europe with Lesa and their numerous friends.

Lora had a significant impact on the people who became her friends and appreciated her presence over the years. Her imaginative flair and clever jokes will leave a void.

Lora is survived by her four children: six grandchildren and a great granddaughter.

Tags: arts/media, public service