Today, we gather to bid a final farewell to a cherished member of our community, a dedicated Adelaide marathon race director, volunteer coordinator, and an extraordinary human being Lorraine Tyler. Lorraine, born on the 30th of March, 1964, in the UK, traversed the globe before choosing South Australia as her forever home.
Her journey through life was marked by resilience, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Lorraine’s story took an unexpected turn as she became one of the small percentage of lung cancer survivors who had never smoked.
For those fortunate enough to have known Lorraine, her impact transcended the professional sphere. She was a beacon of light in our community, championing causes that mattered deeply to her. Lorraine’s advocacy extended beyond the confines of her professional roles, reaching into the realms of equality, diversity, and justice. Her passionate commitment to these principles made her a driving force for positive change and an inspiration to all who crossed her path. I had the privilege of knowing Lorraine for just a couple of years, but the imprint she left on my life is profound.
Lorraine’s passing on the 12th of January, 2024, marked the end of a chapter in the lives of those who held her dear. However, the impact of her life’s work, advocacy, and boundless compassion will continue to echo in the hearts of the many lives she touched. As she peacefully passed away in Adelaide, she was surrounded by the love of her wife, family, friends, and the virtual community she had cultivated online. In celebrating Lorraine’s life, we acknowledge the profound legacy she leaves behind. She was more than a race director; she was a force for good, a catalyst for change, and a beacon of hope for those navigating challenging journeys.
Her ability to unite people, regardless of their backgrounds, and her relentless pursuit of justice and equality set her apart as a truly remarkable soul. As we reflect on the impact of Lorraine’s life, let us carry forward the torch of advocacy, compassion, and dedication that she so brightly lit. In the face of adversity, she stood tall, and in the pursuit of justice, she was unwavering. Lorraine’s legacy challenges us to strive for a world where equality and diversity are celebrated, where justice prevails, and where every voice is heard.
As we bid farewell to Lorraine Tyler today, let us remember the laughter she shared, the challenges she overcame, and the love she bestowed upon those around her. May her memory be a source of inspiration, prompting us to be champions for positive change in our own spheres of influence.
To Lorraine’s family, friends, and all who mourn her passing, our hearts are united in sorrow. May you find solace in the knowledge that Lorraine’s spirit lives on in the collective impact of her advocacy, the memories shared, and the lives she touched. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
