WILMINGTON — Lorraine Burgard of Wrightsville Beach, affectionately known as Rainey, passed away on September 9, 2023 in Wilmington, NC. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She was born in New Orleans, LA on September 12, 1943 and was preceded in death by her parents Lorraine Braun and Billy Braun.
Rainey is survived by her husband Ed, children Chip Burgard (Stephanie) and Ashley Stanley (Brian) and grandchildren Macie Burgard, Caroline Burgard and Luke Stanley. She was also blessed to recently spend time in New Orleans for an 80th birthday celebration and visit with many of her cousins, brother & sister in-laws, nieces, nephews and extended family.
Rainey graduated from LSUNO (now University of New Orleans). In addition to many years as a homemaker, she also spent time as an elementary school teacher. She and Ed were married for 58 years and spent time living and making friends in New Orleans, San Diego, CA, Lubbock, TX, Carrollton, TX, Naperville, IL, Philadelphia, PA, Toronto, CN, Plano, TX and Roswell, GA before settling in Wrightsville Beach, NC.
She was an avid reader and sports fan with a passion for the Saints, LSU, Dallas Cowboys and Michael Jordan’s Bulls. She was blessed to have traveled around the world with her husband and had many wonderful trips with her children and grandchildren. More than anything, Rainey’s greatest joy was spending time with her three grandchildren. She was a doting grandmother to Macie (favorite oldest), Caroline (favorite blonde) and Luke (favorite boy) and they adored her. Rainey’s final act was to help others as a tissue and bone donor.
We would like to thank the doctors and nurses (Margaret, Molly, Caitlyn, Victoria, Amanda, Kathy and others) in the Novant ICU for the loving care they provided to Rainey. Final services were provided by Andrews Mortuary and Crematory.
Rainey chose not to have a formal memorial service; her ashes will be scattered in some of her favorite places. In her memory, please feel free to support one of Rainey’s favorite causes by donating to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospital for Children.
