co-founder of one of Rhode Island’s landmark diners & enduring eateries, died peacefully on Sunday morning at Phillip Hulitar Palliative Care and Hospice Care, surrounded by family, at the age of 90.
She is predeceased by her husband Lloyd Hopkins, her daughter Beverly Cline, her first husband and father of her first five children Edmund Riley, her son-in law James Gallagher and her 8 siblings.
Born into a family of 9 in Pascoag RI on July 6 1927, Lorraine's winningly infectious & capricious personality became evident early in her life. In her early years she was known as “sweet heart†and was the sole heir to the Round Top Estate in Burrillville, RI. The land, comprised of two houses and acreage, would ultimately become fishing and trails owned by the State of RI. One of the homes would be the homestead for her first husband Edmund Riley and 5 children (Jean, Beverly, Michael, Adele and Patti Riley).
She is the proud matriarch of 7 children: Jean Arcand, the late Beverly Cline, Adele Durocher, Michael Riley, Patti Gallagher, Ann Stewart and Bette Hopkins Senecal; 19 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great, great-granddaughter.
Lorraine wove the tapestry of what became the model of a working mother, business entrepreneur and restaurateur. Her most receptive audience were her children. No matter how busy her life became, her greatest and happiest moments were the time spent with her family.
Described by many as strong willed, determined, bold, brazen, witty and at times brash, at age 27 Lorraine's independent and entrepreneurial spirit led her into a business venture and eventual marriage to her second husband Lloyd Hopkins. The couple had two children, Ann and Bette Jean Hopkins.
Together they opened Lloyds Diner in May of 1957 when the Worcester Lunch Car Factory delivered a diner to 2760 Hartford Avenue, US Rte. 6 in Johnston, RI. Throughout the 50's, 60's and 70’s US Rt 6 was the main thoroughfare for travellers from NY to the Cape; Lloyds Diner was open 24/7. The diner became almost a second home for local residents, state & local police and fire, travellers and celebrities. During the Blizzard of ‘78 Lloyds was the only restaurant open to service the state police through the storm period.
Lorraine became something of a symbol; to the patrons that she knew Lorraine was a fiery, strong willed yet tender hearted and opinionated proprietor. All of Lorraine's children and grandchildren during this period were expected to help in the family business. The diner was best known for its classic american cuisine, family owned atmosphere, Lloyd and Lorraine specials, the SOS, the hams and the fresh baked goods.
In the years they were in business, the couple saw their clientele evolve through different life stages. Some customers met on first dates at the diner. They were all served with a warm atmosphere, great food and an open door at any hour. Her oldest daughter Jean Arcand eventually took over ownership of the restaurant until its closing in 1986.
Funeral services in the J.F. Skeffington Chapel, 925 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence on Friday, June 22nd at 11:00am in the Chapel with visiting hours from 10-11am to which relatives and friends are invited. Burial will be in Phillips Memorial Cemetery, Foster RI immediately following the services.
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