Lorraine B. Souza, née Buike, passed away unexpectedly on September 6, 2026, in Ocoee, Florida. She was 75. Born on March 11, 1951, in Buffalo, New York, Lorraine will be remembered as a bright, intelligent, artistic woman whose love for her family shaped the course of her life.

Education was deeply valued in Lorraine’s upbringing, encouraged by her parents, Robert and Barbara Buike. She carried that foundation with her throughout her life and went on to graduate from Boston University with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. Over the years, she held many different jobs, but she primarily worked for many years as an occupational therapist, helping to support her family before her retirement. She fought hard for the patients in her care and was the kind of person who would do anything to help anyone. Even with a meaningful professional life, Lorraine considered her greatest work to be at home, where she devoted herself to raising her three children. She loved being a homemaker and being home with them, and she took deep pride in making sure they had everything they needed.

Lorraine’s creativity touched so much of her life. She was a gifted artist and loved to paint. She was also a talented seamstress who could alter any garment, and her care and imagination were stitched into the clothes she made for her children, including nightgowns, everyday outfits, and Halloween costumes. She brought warmth, skill, and beauty into ordinary moments, and those expressions of love became lasting family memories. Her children were lovingly known by her as her “bums,” a nickname that reflected her affection for them.

She was known for her big “mama bear” energy, her fierce devotion to those she loved, and her willingness to stand up for others. Lorraine was also a devoted Disney lover, and one of the reasons she moved to Florida was to be closer to the theme parks she enjoyed so much. She was also a lover of the magic of the Christmas season, Lorraine never stopped believing in Santa.  Whether through her art, her caregiving, or the way she championed both her patients and her family, she lived with heart, strength, and creativity.

Lorraine is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Souza; her sons, Matthew Souza and Michael Souza, Jr.; her brother, Peter Buike; and her grandchildren, Caleb Souza and Shelby Souza. She leaves behind a family who knew her as a source of protection, encouragement, and enduring love, and who will continue to carry forward the many memories she created with them.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Buike; her mother, Barbara (Schirm) Buike; and her brother, Robert Bruce Buike.

Lorraine’s life was marked by compassion, determination, and a deep love of home and family. She will be remembered with love for her generous spirit, her artistic gifts, and the steady, protective care she gave to the people who meant the most to her.