Lorraine Hope G. Rackliff

AUGUSTA – With heartfelt sadness we announce the passing of Lorraine Hope G. Rackliff of Albee Road, Augusta. She passed peacefully with her family by her side following an unexpected and brief illness on June 26, 2024.

She was born in Augusta on Feb. 12, 1928 the daughter of Lorenzo Gaslin and Eula (Smith) Gaslin.

Lorraine graduated from Cony High School and then went on to study and graduated from The Pelletier School of Beauty Culture and Mr. Bernard School of Hair Fashion in Lewiston. After graduation she obtained her State license beginning her career at Chernowskys in downtown Augusta. She eventually opened her own business, Lakeview Beauty Salon where her customers were treated like family for over 50 years.

She belonged to several organizations including: Order of the Eastern Star, Order of the Amaranth Inc., Social Order of the Beauceant, Daughters of the American Revolution, International Association of Rebekah Assemblies, and the role of wife to The Grand Commander of Maine. A member of Sugar and Spice (a barbershop quartet) and also sang in Elaine Bender’s Band bringing joy to local long-term care facilities.

She was a member of Penny Memorial United Baptist Church where she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. Also, she volunteered for Pooch’s 2nd Hand Shop.

She was predeceased by her parents, Lorenzo and Eula Gaslin; her husband, Ralph Rackliff; and many beloved aunts, uncles; and cousins.

She is survived by her two sons, Paul Rackliff of Whitefield and Edward Rackliff of Augusta; granddaughter, Bethany and her husband Joseph of Whitefield; grandson, Jared and his wife Gesanie and great-grandchildren Eban, Ceriayna, Brody, Korbin and Ronin of Gardiner. She is also survived by many relatives and friends that she loved so much.

A special thank you to Marcia Hall, Joyce Mansir and Charlene Rackliff who have been very supportive throughout her life. A very special thank you to Dennis and Marina Chase for their love and acts of kindness over the years.

The family would like to thank and express gratitude for all those people who have been a part of her life and for the staff at Inland Hospital for their compassionate care.

A graveside service will take place on July 5 at 11 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Augusta.

Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting www.khrfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the animals Gram loved “All God’s Creatures”, especially her dogs. Donations can be made to: Kennebec Valley Humane Society or Waterville Humane Society.