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Lorraine Reaves

Lorraine Reaves
Lorraine Reaves

Eminent Homemaker

County: Moody

Lorraine Reaves of Colman has long been recognized as an outstanding Extension supporter and a moving force in the positive development of her state and community.

In the words of former South Dakota State University Extension Home Economics Program Leader Barb Froke, "Mrs. Reaves is one of the few South Dakota volunteers I know who has contributed to all program areas. In her latest effort as a member of the FCL (Family Community Leadership) Policy Board, she was one of a few hard working persons who launched that program in South Dakota." Froke continues "As SDEHC second vice president, she provided quiet support and very capable leadership to a team of 13 statewide project leaders. This included her effective negotiation and coordination with the Life Long Learning unit on the SDSU campus."

Lorraine's Extension activities range from participation in the Extension Homemakers, to 4-H, to the Master Gardener Program. She also attended the meeting of Associated Country Women of the World in Ireland as a representative from both South Dakota and the United States.

She is currently serving on the Moody County Extension Board, and is a State Family Community Leadership Trainer for the Extension Homemakers. In her Extension Club, she has served as president, vice president, secretary and treasurer; and has been an area director and state second vice president of the Extension Homemaker organization.

She has been a 4-H Leader for more than 20 years, and her entire family were enrolled in 4-H. She has judged 4-H horticulture exhibits for several county Achievement Days.

Lorraine has received ribbons and placings on her exhibits in open class at the county and State Fair, and at the District Homemaker's Councils. She was one of the first people in Moody County to attain the status of Master Gardener by completing Extension horticulture classes offered by South Dakota State University. As a Master Gardener, she has carried out educational programs each year and has authored a local and area news column on gardening.

The Reaves are active in the Presbyterian Church.

Lorraine and her husband Harry have seven children and 20 grandchildren. Their children include: David of Madison; Leo of Colman; Eugene of Sioux Falls; Beverly Lacy of Trent; Betty Fiegen of Dell Rapids; Bonnie Salonen of Brookings; and Peggy Keller of Renner.