Obituary of Loretta Jean Erwine
With profound sadness and enduring love, we share the peaceful passing of Loretta Jean Erwine, who entered eternal rest on Tuesday, April 29th, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of her beloved family. She was 81 years old.
Born on January 10, 1944, Loretta's life was one of deep devotion, joyful laughter, and unwavering strength. She was the heartbeat of her family—a fiercely loving wife, nurturing mother, devoted grandmother, treasured sister, and cherished friend. Her kindness, sense of humor, and boundless generosity touched the lives of everyone blessed enough to know her.
Loretta was married to the love of her life, Douglas James Erwine, for nearly 63 years. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and shared adventures. Their marriage was a shining example of commitment and partnership, filled with laughter, resilience, and mutual respect.
As a mother to her three daughters, Loretta was the unwavering foundation of her family—gentle when needed, strong when it counted, and always filled with love. She delighted in the lives of her children and found immeasurable pride in all their accomplishments, large and small.
Her role as "Grandma" was perhaps her most cherished. She adored Nicholas, Chloe, Shane, and Cecilia, showering them with affection, stories, baked goods, and unwavering support. She celebrated their every milestone and was always their biggest fan cheering, encouraging, and loving them unconditionally.
Loretta had a natural gift for bringing people together. A phenomenal cook and baker, she was the heart of every gathering. From holiday feasts to impromptu Sunday dinners, her kitchen was always open and full of the comforting smells of family favorites. Her cheesecake cupcakes, ice cream cone cakes, pies, and cookies became legendary among family and friends. She also regularly baked treats for the local police station, sharing her warmth with the wider community.
Outside the kitchen, Loretta was an avid reader and a loyal viewer of crime dramas, especially those that kept her guessing. She found joy in the little things an exciting novel, a good cup of coffee, or a spontaneous laugh with loved ones. She loved going out to dinner and appreciated good food, great company, and conversations that lasted late into the night.
An adventurer at heart, Loretta traveled the world, creating unforgettable memories with her family. Whether on a beach, a cruise ship, or a scenic tour across the country, she approached every journey with wonder and gratitude. Her luck was legendary—she frequently won grocery store contests and family vacation giveaways, often surprising her loved ones with yet another amazing trip.
But perhaps Loretta’s most remarkable quality was her strength. A proud cancer survivor, she met life’s challenges with courage and perseverance, inspiring all who witnessed her fight. Her spirit remained unbroken, and she faced every storm with grace, gratitude, and faith.
Loretta is survived by her devoted husband Douglas, her loving daughters Barbara (Thomas) Ammiano, Chrissie (Craig) Neill, and Karen (Jeff) Smith, her adored grandchildren Nicholas, Chloe, Shane, and Cecilia, and her dear siblings Ida May, Edgar, Berenice, Kathleen, and Robert. Though her family grieves deeply, they take comfort in knowing she is reunited in heaven with her beloved parents, Loretta and Edgar Eaton, and her cherished sister Maureen.
Relatives and friends are welcome to come and honor Loretta on Sunday, May 4th, 2025 from 12PM – 4 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, 16 Righter Avenue, Denville, NJ. Mass of Christian burial will take place on Monday, May 5th at 10:00AM at St. Mary`s Church, Denville, NJ. Interment will follow at Denville Cemetery.
In addition to the beautiful memories held by her family, we invite those who knew Loretta to share their favorite stories, memories, or words of tribute on normandean.com. Loretta touched the lives of many, and we believe her legacy is best honored through their stories and experiences.
In the quiet moments, in the smell of fresh-baked goods, in the laughter around a dinner table, and in the hearts of her loved ones—Loretta Jean Erwine will live on. Her legacy of love, strength, and generosity is one that will never fade.
Rest well, Loretta. You were a blessing to us all.
