SPRINGFIELD – Lorraine F. Coet, 96, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at Arc at Sangamon Valley.

She was born in Loami on March 29, 1930, to Jeff and Mabel (Sharp) Branham. She married Henry Coet, Jr. on September 2, 1950, in Auburn and he preceded her in death in 1994. She was also preceded in death by four brothers, Ray, Kenny, Jerry and Merle Branham; and sister, Elnor Smith.

Lorraine’s first jobs were at Strong's Cafeteria and Coney Island Hotdog Cafe at age 15. In her early twenties, she worked at Park Sherman Factory. She was a childcare provider in her home for numerous children. As a self-employed animal groomer, she worked for 37 years giving dogs their spa treatment. Her favorite job was that of office assistant at Koke Mill Orthopedic Center where she learned computer skills and was a valuable member of the receptionist’s team.

She devoted her entire life to caring for family, friends, neighbors, anyone she met, beginning with her own 7 siblings. Lorraine was the oldest of 7 children, born during the first years of The Great Depression. Sewing and fine needlework were arts that she passed down to her daughter. Some of her happiest days were spent at Anchor Boat Club where friends and family met to enjoy Lake Springfield. She and Henry were active members for over 50 years. Lorraine read the Illinois State Journal Register every morning and enjoyed doing the crossword puzzles. She was a master at word games and had a brilliant mind! An avid reader, Lorraine passed down her determination to achieve her education on to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed watching birds, especially cardinals and wrens on her backyard patio while drinking morning coffee and reading the paper. Often neighbors would visit her on the patio to discuss neighborhood happenings. She lived in her own home on Stanford Avenue from 1955 until 2000.

She is survived by children, Debra Coet, of Chatham and Henry Coet III (wife, Antoinette Knowles) of Largo, Florida; grandchildren, Robert Hanna (wife, Macey) of Michigan City, Indiana, Henry Alexander Coet IV, (wife Brandi) of Largo, Florida, Christina Hanna Hummel (husband, Josh) of Atlanta and George Andrew Coet, (wife, Haley) of Largo, Florida; five great-grandchildren; sister, Evelyn Jane; and many nieces and nephews.

Lorraine will be laid to rest with her husband, Henry, in a private ceremony at Camp Butler National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Southside Christian Church's Everyday Fund, 2600 S. MacArthur Blvd. Springfield, IL 62704