Lorraine Clark, Olympics And Northern Beaches Basketball Coach Passes Away, Leaving Behind Husband Jon and Daughters Samantha and Gabrielle
The late Lorriane Clark served as the basketball coach of Special Olympics team for over three decades.
July 21, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 21, 2026
Lorriane Clark, a native of Sydney, Australia, and a renowned member and sports coach of Special Olympics and the Sydney Northern Beaches Club, passed away on July 18, 2026, leaving her family and loved ones devastated.
The untimely death of Lorriane Clark was announced by Special Olympics on their official website, stating:
“It is with great sadness that Special Olympics Australia acknowledges the passing of Mrs Lorraine Clark AM; a true pioneer, a passionate advocate for people with a disability and a lifelong supporter of our movement.”
While the cause of Lorraine Clark’s untimely death has not been disclosed, many of her loved ones are paying tribute and extending heartfelt condolences to her family during this difficult time.
Lorriane Clark was known for her kind nature and her contribution to the Special Olympics movement in Australia. She worked her whole life to create opportunities for athletes with disability to shine, both on and off the field, and at all levels.
Furthermore, she served as an outstanding swimming and basketball coach for the Sydney Northern Beaches Club, as well as head of delegation for state and national teams, on the NSW State Committee, and the Special Olympics Australia Board at the national and international levels.
The late Lorraine Clark was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019 in recognition of her significant contribution to sport and the Special Olympics movement.
In addition to being an amazing coach, Lorraine Clark also served as the president of the Down Syndrome Association of NSW Inc. in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Prior to beginning her journey with Special Olympics as technical director and event manager, Lorraine served as the event manager of The Law Society of New South Wales for almost 14 years from 1995 to 2009.
Lorraine Clark Is Survived By Her Longtime Husband, Jon, Daughters, and The Whole Family
The late Lorraine Clark was not only an exceptional coach and social worker but also a devoted wife to her longtime husband, Jon, and a proud mother of two daughters, Samantha and Gabrielle.
Her daughter, Samantha Shallis Clark, paid tribute to Lorraine Clark, sharing a beautiful picture with a heartfelt caption that reads:
“The matriarch of our family, the force, my mum, passed away yesterday. We are devastated, numb and lost for words. Her love was fierce, her laughter unforgettable and her wisdom is something we’ll carry forever in our hearts. Rest in peace Mum you were my everything.”
She also shared a beautiful reel on her Facebook recalling memories of her late mother, Lorraine Clark, and wrote:
“Your love, humour and endless patience (especially during my teenage years, sorry aobut those) mean that world. Love you more than words, Mum, You’re a legend.”
Samantha works as a Brewery Fresh Partner at Carlton and United Breweries. She graduated from St. Luke’s Grammar School.
Likewise, Lorraine’s other daughter, Gabrielle Clark, who has Down syndrome, is actively involved in supporting others with the condition.
In addition to her husband and daughters, Lorraine Clark is also survived by her son-in-law, Denny; grandson, Levin; and Jude, as well as her extended family, friends, and loved ones.
Her family has yet to provide details about the funeral and memorial services.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The late Lorraine Clark earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Major Psychology from the University of Sydney in 1966 and her MBA from Macquarie Graduate School of Management in 1977.
- She served as the president of North Narrabeen Junior Surf Lifesaving Club.
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Suruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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