Lorria Naomi Calalay

Lorria Calalay, known lovingly as “Mom or Mimi” by everyone who met her, was born on January 13th 1932 and went to be with her lord and savior Jesus Christ on January 28th 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfredo Calalay and her children Gorgie Calalay, Freddie Calalay, Donny Calalay, and Johnna Kay Calalay. She is survived by her sister Jackie Starnes Dunlap, her daughters Teri Calalay Jennings, Tonya Calalay McBrayer and her sons Johnny Calalay and Joey Calalay, as well as her grandson Christopher “Tony” Calalay whom she took in and cared for her entire life. She also leaves behind countless grandchildren and great grandchildren.

First and foremost Lorria was a woman of great faith, strength and tenacity. She devoted her life to supporting her husband and family as they traveled for his military service, and she was determined to make sure everyone around her knew that they could call on her as “Mom or Mimi”. She was deeply involved with her children’s education, volunteered with the disabled, and participated in PTA. She was also a substitute teacher. Her homes were always open and a central location for her big family and many of her relatives, friends and even perfect strangers have fond memories of being welcomed into her kitchen to eat. Her neighbors loved her as well, and shared a connection over her special needs grandson whom she dedicated her life to. For years Lorria had a great love for crafting and sewing, and she enjoyed going to craft fairs. She was also deeply passionate about her faith and her relationship with Jesus. She attended church for many years, prayed daily, and relied upon her faith to strengthen her.

“Mom” was opinionated and stern at times, but she was also silly and kept her sharp wits about her all the way to the end of her life. It’s impossible to surmise ninety three years of life into a few short paragraphs except to say: The legacy that she leaves behind is one of love, determination and self sacrifice. Her family finds comfort in the promise that she is reunited with her husband and children who passed before her, and that she is now healed in the presence of her lord.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a donation to a charity of your choosing. They also welcome you to share your favorite memories of her, as to celebrate and honor such an amazing woman who lived such a full life. There will be a small graveside ceremony to be announced at a later date.