Lorraine E. Piccone, 79, health-care administrator

Lorraine E. Piccone, 79, a nurse and resident of Upper Darby and later, Broomall, died Friday, July 18, of septic shock at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital.

Work and family were top priorities for Mrs. Piccone, whose maiden name was Shelzi. A talented and dedicated nurse, she graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Moylan and pursued her nursing studies and training at Pennsylvania Hospital Nursing School.

She spent many years administering long-term care at Little Flower Manor and St. Francis Country House, Catholic nursing facilities in Darby Borough.

For 10 years ending in September 2013, she worked as a school nurse in the Upper Darby School District. She had hoped to work during the 2013-14 school year, but was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Throughout her nursing career, she built many lasting friendships with colleagues; one was Marge Wiegner, whom she considered family. "When they weren't taking care of patients, they enjoyed time down at Cape May," her family said in a tribute.

Cape May was a special place for Mrs. Piccone. She and her husband, Gilbert J., purchased a home in North Cape May more than 45 years ago. She spent summers there with her children and more recently, grandchildren. He died in 1994.

"Her glowing tan in the summers was an indication of the hours she spent on the beach," her family said. "She enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles or just relaxing in her favorite chair listening to the Phillies broadcast."

Mrs. Piccone followed current events and all the drama involving the Philadelphia sport teams.

For many years, she was a member of St. Alice Parish in Upper Darby. Her strong religious faith sustained her throughout her battle with cancer, said her family, and her strength while ill inspired those around her.

She is survived by daughters Linda M. Taraborelli, Diane Gallagher, and Elaine Rosanio; son Anthony J.; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A visitation from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, July 24, will be followed by an 11 a.m. Funeral Mass at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Rd., Broomall. Interment is private.

Contributions may be made to the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania, c/o Brain Cancer Research, 3535 Market St. Suite 750, Philadelphia 19104.