Loretta Secrest

Loretta Secrest — March 31, 1936 – July 6, 2020

We celebrate the transition of Loretta Fay Secrest (Wilson) from her earthy home to her heavenly home on July 6, 2020.

Loretta was the first born of Leo & Leota Wilson on March 31, 1937.  She was a big sister to Judy Wilson Dyke Carlson and Kathy Wilson Churchill.  Loretta was the wife of Frank Secrest (Deceased), her high school sweetheart. They had five beautiful & unique children.  Their first born was Marjorie Lynn Gray followed by Michael Lee Secrest (deceased), Melodie LaRay McLachlan, Melinda Leota Oremus (deceased), and Mardeanne Louise Scott.  Loretta was also a grandmother to Jonathan, Steven, and Matthew Gray; Chris and Ryan McLachlan; Garrett Oremus and Katie Scott.  And finally she was a great grandmother to Charlotte, Leilani, Ruth, Brooklynn and Anastassia Gray.

Loretta was born in Torrance, CA but raised in Lawndale, California.  Later the family moved to Brea, California where she finished school.

Loretta loved the Lord so being involved with church was an important part of her life.  She loved to sing and was an avid reader.  Holding babies was a favorite pastime and cooking Mexican food was a highlight in any week.

Loretta experienced a variety of careers. She and Frank owned 2 successful Baskin Robins ice cream stores, was a successful relator, and managed a farm.  Never afraid to try something new, Loretta decided later in life to pursue her BS. and Masters degree in psychology.  After Frank passed away Loretta decided to begin your final adventure by selling her home and moving to Quincy, CA to be near her high school friend, Billie Etta Bequette.  She spent several years attending church, volunteering and creating a new circle of friends.

It is hard to sum up Loretta’s life but it was clear she loved her family. To her daughters, she was a strong example of an independent women who was not scared to try new things.  The family never knew what was next in Loretta’s life.  It seems she died the same way she lived, on her own terms.

We love you Loretta.