Lorna Butler-Rose

Manuel and Mary Butler welcomed their daughter, Lorna, into the world on November 12, 1943, joining her sister Cynthia and later another sister, Cheryl.

The family settled in the diverse Weir district of Taunton, where the girls attended Walker School, which was within view of the family home and under the protective watch of their parents. There, Lorna formed lifelong friendships and was introduced to music she had never heard before, often caught dancing to its unfamiliar rhythms—much to her mother’s gentle admonishment to come back inside. Lorna married young and became the devoted mother of two daughters, Wendy and Lynn. Though her father had modeled gentle love and deep devotion to family, her marriage did not reflect the care she had known growing up, and it eventually dissolved. As a single parent, and with the support of her family, she carried many burdens quietly, ensuring her daughters never lacked for anything. Even when she disagreed with their decisions, her love never wavered, and she was always there to offer guidance, support, and comfort. Without hesitation, she advocated for and gave her care, time, and support to many family members throughout her life.

Later in life, determined to better herself, Lorna returned to school and proudly earned her GED—an achievement that reflected her perseverance, strength, and lifelong commitment to growth. She encouraged higher education and unabashedly bragged whenever her brood furthered their education. Lorna worked as a cosmetologist while raising her daughters. One of her fondest memories was watching them leave the hair salon and head to the dance studio a few doors down, the sound of their tap shoes echoing as they went.

Later in life, she fearlessly made a major career change, dedicating herself to caring for individuals with traumatic brain injuries—a choice that would become her most rewarding profession. She took great pride in recounting her clients’ achievements and was deeply committed to preserving their dignity and rights. Although Lorna respected traditional medicine, she believed the sea held healing powers for many ailments. Her belief was affirmed by her favorite poet, Rod McKuen, whose LP The Sound of the Sea she wore thin, often falling asleep to its soothing rhythm. Music was a constant presence in her life and could often be heard while she cleaned or crocheted. As she declined, music became her faithful companion, offering comfort, peace, and solace.

It would be trite to sum up Lorna’s relationship with her granddaughters, Angela, Zooey, Hannah, Quinn, and Jacobi, as simply loving. She was a true ride or die—whether it was a ride to school or a last-minute trip hours away to pick up the perfect prom dress, she was always there. Lorna’s granddaughters further blessed her life with eight great-grandchildren: Lilliana, Levi, Marquez, Violet, Naomi, Victoria, John, and Evelyn.

Still later in life, Lorna opened her heart again and married Raymond, though they ultimately chose to live separately. Their friendship and love endured, and he remained faithfully by her side—with baked stuffed shrimp and words of encouragement—until the very end.

Lorna often expressed deep gratitude for her sons-in-law, Raymond and Peter, and her grandsons-in-law, Robert and John (former), knowing her children and grandchildren were always in good hands. People often made lighthearted comments about Lorna’s matriarchal role in the family, and she herself would proudly proclaim, “My family treats me like a queen.” In truth, she earned every ounce of that love and devotion.

Lorna transitioned with her family by her side, surrounded by the love she so deeply deserved—though it was still only a fraction of all she gave throughout her life.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 4 pm, followed by a service to begin at 7 pm in the chapel of the Silva Funeral Home, 80 Broadway (at Saint Mary’s Square), Taunton. Additional parking with handicap access is located on the north side of the funeral home. Her burial will be held privately.

For expressions of sympathy, to sign an online guestbook, to plant a tree in her memory, or

to light a memorial candle, visit www.silvafuneralhome.com.