Tribute To Lorraine Garside

On Sunday July 27, 2025 we celebrated the last Sunday worship service with Lorraine Garside. Below you will find the introduction and link to a short slideshow introduction and then the Tribute to Lorraine.

Good Morning

Before we continue, I’d like to welcome all of Lorraine’s friends, family, and community members who are with us today.

We’re gathered to honour a woman whose life has been defined by service, kindness, and quiet strength — someone who has touched this church and the Coldwater community in countless ways.

To reflect on the time that Lorraine has spent with us and the impact she’s had, we’ve prepared a short slideshow.

Lorraine's Farewell

Tribute to Lorraine

It is both a joy and a deeply emotional moment to stand before you today, as we celebrate a truly remarkable woman — Lorraine Garside — as we prepare to say farewell as she moves on from our Coldwater United Church family and this community to Oakville to be closer to her daughter. As she would tell you – she didn’t want them to worry about her.

Lorraine has been part of the Coldwater community since 1990, and a beloved member of Coldwater United Church for over 35 years.

She joined our congregation shortly after moving here with her husband Paul. Together, they built a beautiful life together with their three wonderful daughters, Cindy, Katie and Debbie.

Lorraine’s love for her family has always been the heart of her strength and generosity.

Your love for your family has always been evident—in your words, your actions, and your unwavering kindness. We see your legacy in them, and in the love, you’ve shared with all of us.

Within the church, Lorraine has worn many hats though she never wanted the spotlight.

And on Sundays, when needed, Lorraine would quietly take toddlers down from the sanctuary to the nursery — giving parents a peaceful moment to worship, and offering those little one’s gentle care and attention.

She has been a steadfast member of the United Church Women’s Auxiliary, faithfully serving as Treasurer, and helping organize countless events including funeral lunches and other special gatherings.

Just recently, Lorraine was honoured with a 60-year certificate from the United Church of Canada Women’s Auxiliary — a truly remarkable milestone.

She has also served for over 20 years on the Church Stewards Committee, bringing her thoughtful, practical, and open approach to every discussion.

Lorraine was a member of the Minister’s search committee, helping to guide the future of this congregation with wisdom and care.

And while she used to do even more, Lorraine checks in on the church regularly: emptying the dehumidifier, keeping the kitchen tidy, and quietly making sure things are in order.

Many of us have affectionately called her the “church mouse.”

Not because she’s quiet or small but because she moves with gentle purpose, always behind the scenes, doing what needs to be done and leaving a lasting impact wherever she goes.

Her contributions don’t stop at the church doors.

For over 25 years, Lorraine has been the driving force behind our Coldwater Community Food Bank — scheduling volunteers, managing donations, and organizing the Christmas Hamper Program that supports so many local families.

She was also one of the founding organizers of our Breakfast for Kids Program, now in its 10th year of providing meals to students at our local public school.

Lorraine was part of the team preparing breakfasts each week — sleeves rolled up, ready to help.

And if all of that weren’t enough, Lorraine has also given her time to the Coldwater Heritage Museum, caring for the gardens and even dressing in period costume for the summer Devon Teas. Always with a smile. Always with grace.

Lorraine was Awarded Severn Township's Volunteer of the Year — a well-deserved honour for a life lived in service to others.

Lorraine, as you prepare to leave our church and community at the end of July, we are filled with gratitude. Sad to see you go but thankful beyond words for everything you’ve given.

You’ve shown us what it means to live a life of service, kindness, and faith. You’ve been a blessing to this church, to this community, and to each of us here today

Lorraine, on behalf of your Coldwater United Church family, and the entire community who knows and loves you.

Thank you.

Thank you for your service.

Thank you for your friendship.

Thank you for your love.

We will miss you dearly—but we will carry your example with us always.

May God bless you in this next chapter, just as richly as you have blessed all of us.