At the age of 18, Loretta married Francis Hedberg and together had four children; Thomas (Chika) Hedberg, Jerilyn (Michael) Grimm, Jennifer Hedberg (Bennett Burbank) and Eric (Adriana) Sage.  Throughout their marriage, they lived in Texas and Georgia where Francis was a dentist in the US Army.  Post-military life, Loretta lived in Huntington, NY where she attended Adelphi University and raised her four children as a devoted and loving mother.  Loretta nurtured her family’s natural curiosity about life and ignited a creative spirit that blossomed into a love of learning for all her children.  Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren, Robert O’Neil, Patrick O’Neil, Justin Sage, Tyler Sage, Aron and Moishe Hedberg; as well as her great-grandchildren Sebastian, Jackson, Molly and Robert.

Loretta was a lifelong learner, driven by an insatiable curiosity.  This passion led her to proudly earn her college degree with honors from Florida Atlantic University in her 70’s, demonstrating that the pursuit of knowledge knows no age.

Her love of art was a constant source of joy and inspiration throughout her life.  As a member of the Century Village Camera Club, she found particular delight in capturing the beauty of nature during the club’s field trips.  Her beloved cats, Moon Pie and Ginger, were frequent and adored subjects in her artistic and photographic endeavors.  Loretta also volunteered at the Century Village library where she loved making reading recommendations and engaging visitors in discussions on various history books.

Loretta also had a passion for travel.  One particularly cherished period was the time she spent living in the picturesque St. Anne de la Parade, just outside of Quebec City, Canada.  There, she found joy in gardening and immersing herself in the French culture.  Her adventurous spirit extended to many road trips in her small RV, where she explored new horizons and created lasting memories.

A staunch Republican, Loretta was a dedicated support of President Trump.  Her strong convictions and active engagement in her beliefs through the Republican Club were a testament to her passionate and patriotic nature.

Beyond her many interests, Loretta was a wonderful cook who loved to share her culinary creations with her family.  Her Polish kielbasa and blintzes were a much-loved family specialty, and family gatherings were always made warmer and more special by her delicious meals.