Lorraine Betty Bylsma, a beloved resident of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Forest Hills Care & Rehab Center. She was born on March 7, 1929, in Muskegon, Michigan, as the only child of Andrew and Dena (Keur) Thedorff. Lorraine's life journey began in a small town where she would lay down the foundations for a life filled with faith, love, and family.
A devoted student, Lorraine attended Hope College, where she would meet Harold (Harry) Bylsma, her partner in life for 56 years. Together, they became founding members of the Midland Reformed Church in Midland, Michigan, a testament to their strong commitment to community and faith. Lorraine's entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she and Harry opened the Pathway Christian Bookstore, which served as a beacon for many within the community.
The couple later navigated various chapters of life in Eustis, Florida, and Edwardsburg, Michigan, before Lorraine made the heartfelt move to Oklahoma in 2019 to be closer to family. It was here that she found solace and warmth surrounded by her loved ones until the end of her earthly journey.
As a mother, Lorraine instilled in her daughters a deep sense of faith and a love for the Lord. She is survived by her three daughters: Linda (John) Kennett of Midland, Michigan, Ruth (Jeff) Parker of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and Luann Thibodeau of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Lorraine embraced her role as a grandmother to six grandchildren and a cherished great-grandmother to eight great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love that will resonate through generations.
Lorraine's husband, Harry, and her son-in-law, Jeff Thibodeau, preceded her in death, both of whom hold a special place in her heart and are now reunited with her in the embrace of eternity. Throughout her life, Lorraine was not only known for her unwavering faith but also for her remarkable talents in needlework and sewing. Her heartfelt dedication to her craft was only surpassed by her deep love for Jesus, a relationship that blossomed as she diligently studied the Bible with Bible Study Fellowship (BSF).
Lorraine is now at home in heaven, safe and embraced by the warmth of her faith and the love of her family.
While no services are planned, family and friends are invited to celebrate her memory and share their fond recollections online at www.brownfamilycares.com. Lorraine's family has entrusted her care and cremation to Brown's Funeral & Cremation Service, 231 E. Commercial St., Broken Arrow, OK 74012, 918-251-5331.
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