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Joseph Orr Obituary
Family-Placed Obituary
JOSEPH A. ORR, Ph.D. Joseph Alexander Orr, 78, of Jupiter, passed away peacefully at La Posada on November 1, 2008, with Linda, his wife of 34 years, and his son, Eric, by his side. Dr. Orr was born November 20, 1929 in West Palm Beach to Joseph Alexander and Eula Terry Orr. He graduated from Industrial High School, West Palm Beach, in 1947. His education included a B.S. degree in Biology from Florida A. & M. University and a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from Florida State University. He did post doctoral work at Florida International University. Dr. Orr's many faceted careers in education, from student to teacher to administrator, spanned over forty years. His last positions with the Palm Beach County School District were as Associate Superintendent of Instruction and Chief Academic Officer. After retiring, he served as President of Joseph A. Orr & Associates, Inc. and The Montessori Academies of Palm Beach County, Inc. Dr. Orr was the proud recipient of many educational and civic awards, including National Community Education Association , Inc. School Leadership Award; National Education Association Distinguished Service Award; National Forum of Public Administrators, Inc. Award; Suncoast Chamber of Commerce Public Servant of the Year Award; Phi Delta Kappa Man of the Year Award; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Alumni Chapter Distinguished Educator of the Year Award; The Urban League of Palm Beach County, Inc. Pioneer Award; West Palm Beach Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. Men of Excellence Award in Education; and Who's Who in America. Dr. Orr was very grateful to receive the Key to the City of West Palm Beach, Florida which was presented by Mayor Nancy Graham on October, 22 1992 and for Joseph A. Orr Day named in his honor by the Town of Lantana on June 23, 2008. Dr. Orr has served on the Board of Directors' of many organizations, including Hospice of Palm Beach. Dr. Orr was a 60 year member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He also held membership in several Honor Societies. He is a past president of the Palm Beach County Classroom Teachers Association and he also served on the board of directors for the National Education Association. One of Dr. Orr's primary interests was travel. He and his wife visited over 100 countries and enjoyed cruising to all the major regions of the world. He also enjoyed politics, reading, computers and fine dining. Dr. Orr faced the challenges of prostate cancer for seventeen years with dignity and determination. The family of Dr. Orr would like to thank the following for their care and concern during the final phase of this long journey: doctors Bruce Witta M.D., Susan Slovin M.D. Ph.D. (New York) , Paul Swanson M.D., Paul Robinson M.D., Gene Shieh M.D., Gary Kabinoff M.D.; John Afshar M.D.; the staff of Martin Memorial hospital, Molly's House, The Pavilion, LaPosada and Hospice of Palm Beach. Dr. Orr's life will be celebrated at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Palm Beach Gardens on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please express your condolences, in his name, to Hospice of Palm Beach or the charity of your choice. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Linda Free Orr; children, Eric Orr (Julia) of Atlanta, Georgia, Pamela McKenzie (Clark) of Bowie, MD, and Tracye Orr of Washington D.C.; grandchildren, Lauren McKenzie, Maya Orr, Michelle Orr and Joshua Orr; sisters, Juanita Orr and Virginia Orr of Bowie, MD; daughter-in-law Lavdena Orr; nieces Terry Jenkins and Kim Jenkins; nephews, Brad Whorl and Tod Whorl; sister-in-law, Elaine Whorl; life-long friends Samuel MacDonald and Moses Stubbs, as well as numerous cousins and extended family. He is pre-deceased by his parents, first wife Ardis and sister, Marian Jenkins. To express condolences and/or make donations Visit PalmBeachPost.com/obituaries
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Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Orr
Shirley Denton Jackson & a bevy of teacher & student support professionals
March 30, 2022
Here it is 14 years after Dr Orr has passed on.
Recently SDPBC colleague friends (Vanda, Amalia, Renee, Joyce, Lucille, Dorothy...) via pictures and stories began a booklet to give to Mary Lou Hilley's daughter, Theresa, commemorating what a force of love and grace she was in our lives some 30 years ago.
As we swap those stories, Joe Orr's leadership and mentorship keep showing up, weaving through the very fabric of our lives. Stories of how we all grew professionally and personally stronger - he is there. How we supported each other and honed the skills of our craft and loved the work of "human development" - he is there. How we faced challenges, resolved conflicts, and handled losses -- he was there. He was an inspiration, a model, a stand for integrity and a haven for us all. We all know how blessed we were to have him in our lives.
Dr Orr, just to give you a 2022 update: the joys of our "work" have never stopped and your life and values keep rippling through us, even now.
JO ANN JORDAN
May 27, 2009
Dear Linda,
Dr Orr was my high school principal - he did have an amazing impact on my life, eventhough he may have never known it.
My prayers are with you;
Jo Ann Jordan
Class of 1979
Jupiter Sr High School
Bud Colcord
January 23, 2009
Sorry for your loss Linda. Saw you briefly at the luncheon recently. Met your husband at the '06 reunion. Evelyn and I extend our deepest sympathies.
Margaret (Lindsey) Delo
January 13, 2009
Dear Linda ~ I never had the privilege of meeting your husband Joe, but he was clearly a man who was respected, esteemed, and loved by all who knew him! I read all of the pages of loving tributes and he must have been a truly incredible man! I only learned of his passing today, but I will keep you and the family in my thoughts and prayers. It was so good to see you today, and I hope you'll continue to join us for our monthly luncheons! Blessings to you and to the extended family in your loss.
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Jo Glover-Thomas
November 28, 2008
I served on the Gifted Education Project Committee with Dr. Joseph Orr. He was a great leader in the field of education.
My condolence to the family and God bless all of you.
Jo Glover-Thomas
Miami, Florida
Marietta Williams Hendricks
November 22, 2008
“Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted.” St Matthew 5:4
Dear Eric, Pamela, and Tracye:
I was saddened to hear of your father’s homegoing. Your father influenced my life and imparted valuable guidance, direction and support to me and my sister during our high school tenure at Roosevelt High School. He gave me the opportunity to develop and excel in administrative skills by hiring my sister and me to work in the Adult Education Program during our senior year of high school. I will always remember him and the wisdom, encouragement and sound advice and guidance he gave to me. To this day I cherish the respect, the bond and relationship I had with him. I often speak of him and all those positive influences as I remember and reminisce when talking about my hometown experiences there in West Palm Beach, FL.
I extend condolences to all of you and your immediate and extended family members.
Vertelle Middleton
November 20, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
W. Conrad Sweeting M.D.
November 17, 2008
I wish to express my sincere condolence to the family of Joseph Orr and especially to Juanita, Eric, and Pamela during this period of sadness and grief.
AnEta Sewell
November 17, 2008
My Deepest Condolences.
AnEta Sewell
Alvin G. White
November 16, 2008
My foremost thought at this moment is that the passing of so great a champion such as Joe Orr will be felt not only throughout the state but the nation. He was a man who fought hard for every cause in which he enlisted. God Bless.
Sultan Tawwab aka Alfred Maynor
November 15, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Vern Pickup-Crawford
November 14, 2008
Whether as a county leader of the 1968 statewide teacher walk-out or returning in 1974 as principal and continuing until retirement as instructional leader, Joe Orr left a larger imprint on and legacy to Palm Beach Public schools than any other individual in the last half century. Period. God speed to his family and blessed are we who knew and worked by his side.
Warren Wake
November 13, 2008
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away.
Blessed be the name of the LORD.
Norma White
November 13, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow. Joe fought a good fight and now he is at home, safe in the arms of Jesus. May it ease your pain to know that so many of us are thinking of you and praying for you..
Sincerely,
Norma Solomon White
25th Supreme asileus
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Brenda Johnson
November 13, 2008
Dear Pam and Family,
May all of you be comforted, strengthen and sustained by your faith and God's awesome power during your difficult time of grief. The memories of your loved one are your's to treasure forever.
Wishing you God's blessings,
Brenda (Vy)
Arther Mae Pertee-Starke
November 13, 2008
To the Family of Dr. Joseph Orr:
I was saddened by the news of the passing of your husband, father, brother and my former 10th grade biology teacher at Roosevelt High School (class of 1957). He was a splendid man, of great intellect and big heart. It was my privilege to know Dr. Orr not only as a teacher but as a long time neighbor on 5th Street in West Palm Beach, Florida. His genial personality and the generous instincts of this fine man will be missed not only by his students and colleagues, but by everyone he inspired. Please accept for yourselves, and for those who mourn with you, my assurance of heartfelt sympathy.
Linda Williams
November 13, 2008
Eric, Pam & Tracey
We send our deepest sympathy...
Herbert Stewart, Jr., Atlanta, GA
Linda Stewart-Williams, Tamarac, FL
Karen Bennett
November 12, 2008
To The Orr Family:
My deepest sympathy is extended to the entire family for the loss of your brother and father. May your loving memories of him and the outpouring of love from family and friends help to bring you comfort.
Kenneth Price
November 11, 2008
Dear Orr Family
I am a former student of Mr. Orr (class of 1962), he has touched multitudes of students throughout his career and will truly be missed by all of those that he taught and helped. Many of us had to learn to appreciate our instructors and did not understand their concern for our well being during the time we were in school. Mr. Orr helped so many of us to find our road to college walls and to attain degrees in different areas. My heart goes out to the family.
Ellareetha Carson
November 11, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and family.
Margaret L. & James Black & Barbara Black Adams
November 11, 2008
To the Joseph Orr Family:
My mother, brother and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to you in the loss of one who was very dear to us as a LONG TIMe friend and neighbor on 5th Street in West Palm Beach, FLorida. May God strengthen and comfort you in your loss as you continue to look to the hill from whench cometh your help. Joe will be missed as a friend and teacher of the Roosevelt High School Faculty. James, (Class of 1956; Barbara, Class of 1957)
Margaret L. & James Black & Barbara Black Adams
November 11, 2008
To the Joseph Orr Family:
My mother, brother and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to you in the loss of one who was very dear to us as a LONG TIMe friend and neighbor on 5th Street in West Palm Beach, FLorida. May God strengthen and comfort you in your loss as you continue to look to the hill from whench cometh your help. Joe will be missed as a friend and teacher of the Roosevelt High School Faculty.
Kay Taylor
November 10, 2008
Mr. Orr was our Biology instructor at Roosevelt High School. He was a great man that we all looked up to and respected. He will forever be remembered. Our prayers go out to his family.
Lorenzo"Pop"Taylor -RHS Class of 61
Carolyn Kay Taylor- RHS Class of 63
Ethel Young - RHS Class of 64
John Sutton
November 10, 2008
Dr. Orr was a boss, mentor and a friend. He had a vision to see what was right, and to act accordingly without hesitation. He also had a great sense of humor. Once I missed an appointment to interview him for a video on the S.O.I. program because of another complicated project. His secretary called me wondering about our appointment. When I said it was my fault because another project caused me to lose track ot time, she said "Let me put you through to Dr. Orr." He came on the phone and wondered where I was. I told him I had forgotten him. He was the Assiciate Supt. for Instruction at the time. He found the fact I had forgotten him hilarious and laughed out loud. He wasn't mad as might have been expected. He was genuinely entertained. I asked if I could do the interview in 30 mins. and he said "Sure, that's fine." That was Dr. Orr.
Katrina (and Lewis) Young
November 9, 2008
Eric, Pam, and Tracye,
My deepest sympathy are extended on the loss of your father. It has been many, many years since we have seen each other but I still hold in my mind and in my heart the memories of the lives we shared as neighbors. I remember the sleepovers and the outside play and hope that just as these fond memories always bring a smile to my face, the memories of your time spent with your father will bring a smile to you. Peace and Blessings Always.
Debra Neeson Okell
November 7, 2008
One life can make such an incredible difference in the lives of so many, and Dr. Orr's was the epitome of such a life. I am privledged to have worked with him on both local School District and state special education initiatives. He was never too busy to pause and offer guidance and support and I will always remember him as a true champion of our community's special students.
May you find comfort and support in the wonderful memories of a truly remarkable and honorable man. May he rest in peace.
Cameia Collier
November 7, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with Pam and her family at this time. God bless you all.
Terry Morton
November 7, 2008
I have only known Dr. Orr professionally, but will sorely miss his insights and knowledge. Looking back on my experiences with him and reading his biography I am reminded of a saying by Henry David Thoreau “Be not simply good; be good for something.” Dr. Orr was always good for something in everything he did and this legacy will always remembered by those who knew him.
Deborah Joyner
November 7, 2008
Dear McKenzie and Orr Families:
My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve. I will keep your families in my prayers.
Marvel Smith
November 7, 2008
God Bless You! My sympathy on the death of your father. God grant you perfect peace!
Joe Picklesimer
November 6, 2008
Dr. Orr was a friend and a true leader. I received much from him during my career in Palm Beach County. I know that God will console his family and many friends.
beatrice tignor
November 6, 2008
My deepest sympathy is extended to you on the loss of your father.
Sincerely,
Bea Tignor
Claudia Crawn
November 5, 2008
Joe Orr was an indefatigable worker for children of all ages. I have never met a more dedicated educator or a more decent human being.
Avis Clark
November 5, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Debbye, Andrea, Cashus III and Elvenn - Raing, Peppers and Richardson Families
November 5, 2008
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and sorry he could not travel both and be one traveler. Long Dr. Orr stood and looked down one as far as he could to where it bent in the undergrowth; then took the other, as just as fair, and having perhaps the better claim, because it was grassy and wanted wear.
Our family lived directly across the street from Dr. Orr. He was our neighbor - Debbye, Andrea, Cashus III and Elvenn. He was a gentleman from the top of his head to the sole of his feet. He was meticulously dressed everyday and he drove a two door, gold Bonneville with a black ragtop, giving us rides to school on rainy days. We were his children, along with Eric, Pam and Tracey. He encouraged us, scolded us, advocated for us and loved us. He was an extraordinary educator, administrator, author, lecturer, scholar and friend.
As our mentor, we admired him. As associate superintendnt of Palm Beach County schools, we were proud of him. As executive director of the Palm Beach County Schools Administrators' Association, we looked upon him with great esteem. As a community activist fighting against injustices and inequities, we respected and honored him.
We celebrate and rejoice with Dr. Orr's family for we know that his life is your legacy. His love for each of you was his gift. Your memories of him are the comfort you must keep in your heart forever.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and Dr. Orr took the one less traveled by, and that has made all of the difference.
Alfred Reed
November 5, 2008
Mr. Orr was my tenth grade Biology teacher. He taught me a lot of things, but the most important thing that he taught me was to be responsible for my actions. He told me that the choices that I made today (1967) will determine the life I live tomorrow. He was right and I thank him for pointing me in the right direction.
Shannon Monroe
November 5, 2008
The Orr Family,
Brother Orr was blessed with the gift and talent to educate and lead others through the common goal of ACHIEVEMENT. We have a committment to continue his legacy and we will fulfill this commitment by acting as achors in our perspective communities. We will all miss you but we will continue improve upon your milstones accomplished in your professional career.
Brother Shannon
W.P.B. Alumni Chapter of Kappa Apha Psi
Anita Lockett Johnson
November 5, 2008
As I praised God last night for having spared me to live to see Barack elected as President of The United States, I thought of Mr. Orr and many others who would have rejoiced and rejoiced. From those unknowns who did not survive the sea voyage to this land and to those to date who have preceded us, I pray that they are rejoicing in heaven.
Mr. Orr was an inspiration and will be missed; however, I thank God that our paths intersected.
To his family: Find peace in knowing that your love one made a difference in the lives of many. He will live on in our thoughts, prayers and memories.
May God continue to bless you.
from Anita Lockett Johnson and the RHS Class of 1956
Dick Reed
November 4, 2008
Joe was a true educational leader who made a difference in the lives of many learners. Linda, thank you for sharing Joe over the years.
Dick Reed
Linda Kinsey- Kinard
November 4, 2008
I am deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Orr's passing. He made such an important contribution to my life and I often credit him for my love for biology and science, in general. He inspired excellence and epitomized what he expected. I learned from my father, U. B. Kinsey, that Joe Orr was exceptional even as a boy when he taught him and recognized the unstoppable drive and genius in him and the two others: Samuel McDonald, Cecil Murray comprising the dynamic trio of brilliance, confidence, and competence.
To Eric, my dear younger friend, my heart goes out to you to comfort you. To Linda, his wife, you were blessed to share 34 years being honored by him. To the entire Orr family, the world loss in your loved one a world-class champion who made the kind of difference that you understand only by the example of his life. This is why it is possible for Barack Obama to run for President. Because of those Black people like Joe Orr, my dad, and countless others who have gone before Barack as sterling examples of what we can contribute with unparalleled excellence to mankind.
I am humbled by the thought that the torch has been passed. . . . Goodbye Mr. Orr, thank you for your inspiration, you will never be forgotten.
Patty Mandigo
November 4, 2008
Linda,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family! He was good to me and holds a special place in my heart. God Bless you!
Patty Mandigo
Don Sherwood
November 4, 2008
Linda,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Although I did not have the privledge of knowing Dr. Orr, I was a student of yours in the 1970's at Twin Lakes. I recall how fondly you would speak of him and I was left with the impression of what a great person he was, even way back then. I extend my deepest sympathies to you at this most difficult time.
susan slovin
November 4, 2008
Linda - what a magnificent and indomitable spirit that was Joe. I cannot express the level of my sadness at his passing but will remember his love of life and travel. And you, my dear, were wonderful as his support.
May he rest in peace knowing that there were many who loved and admired him
all my love
best to you and the family
Susan Slovin, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, NY
kenneth Slaughter
November 4, 2008
Dear Orr Family:
Befriended by Eric in our Brown University days starting in 1969,I have known of the great dedication and contributions Dr. Orr made to the education of the young people in West Palm Beach and beyond. His legacy continues in all of you and the broader community he touched,taught, mentored and loved.
My love and warm thoughts are with you, as always.
Rufus Wright
November 4, 2008
To The Orr Family
I was very saddened to hear about Dr. Orr passing. While I know that words are only a small gesture of support and that I know there isn't much we can say or do to ease the pain you feel right now, but my heart is with you and know that his spirit has touched many people's lives as it has mine. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please always remember that those"we love,we never loose. For always they will be, Loved, remembered, treasured and always in our memory". Trust in the Lord, he's our strength in times of sorrow. Rufus Wright & Family
Rufus Wright
November 4, 2008
To The Orr Family
I was very saddened to hear about Dr. Orr passing. While I know that words are only a small gesture of support and that I know there isn't much we can say or do to ease the pain you feel right now, but my heart is with you and know that his sprite has touched many people's lives as it has mine. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please always remember that those"we love,we never loose. For always they will be, Loved, remembered, treasured and always in our memory". Trust in the Lord, he's our strength in times of sorrow. Rufus Wright & Family
Leonard Jr (Bootsy) & Ronda Stevens-Barto
November 4, 2008
To Eric, Pam, & Tracey,
We send our sincere condolences to your family. As neighbors from 6th Street, your family will always be remembered. We pray that your family is comforted with the precious Word of God, The Bible. Comforting reading can be found at John 5:28,29, John 11:1-26 & Revelation 21:3,4. Know that your family is being thought about during this time of sorrow. Stay strong for each other, much love.
Harry Benson
November 4, 2008
Joe was a super educator. Best wishes to Linda and family.
Jeannette Merced
November 4, 2008
To The Orr Family:
My deepest and sincere condolences for your loss. May you find peace, joy and understanding as you spend your days reflecting on the goodness of his life. I met Dr. Orr through his endevours in the charter school movement.
Mary Jones
November 4, 2008
Pamela McKenzie and Family, may God's word comfort you in your time of sorrow. May God give you travelling mercy. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Earth has no sorrows that Heaven cannot heal.
Allen Beckett
November 4, 2008
To The Orr Family:
My deepest and sincere condolences for your loss. I willl never forget Dr. Orr as being one of my favorite teachers at R.H.S.,he touched my life in a most profound way. May God bless your family in these difficult days.
Dwayne and Patricia Hooper Sr.
November 4, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with Pam, Edward and Lauren McKenzie and the rest of the Orr family. May God's ever present love and peace comfort you at this time. The LCC Family
Jim Simpson
November 4, 2008
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Bobbie Brooks Jr.
November 3, 2008
Brother Orr will forever be remembered for being a trailblazer in the education system of Palm Beach County. He has represented his community and fraternity (Kappa Alpha Psi) in an outstanding manner. He will be remembered by many of us who are following in his footsteps to impact the children of our community. Our prayers are with his family.
Barbara Lyles
November 3, 2008
Our deepest sympathy is extended to the Orr family. Virginia and Juanita
shared so many fond stories about their brother, though we never met him. He was deeply loved by his sisters!
Barbara and Everett (Artie) Lyles
James Guyton
November 3, 2008
To The Orr Family:
I met Joseph A. Orr in 1949 when I was a Freshman at FAMC. He became my Godfather and remained in that memorable position during the last 59 years. His guidance, support, advice and brotherly love prepared me for many challenges and successes experienced in the last six decades. May you find comfort in his legacy. May he rest in peace. James S. Guyton, Jr. Colonel, U.S. Army, Retired. Kappa Alpha Psi - 1950. FAMC - 1953. Jacksonville, Florida. Silver Spring, Maryland.
Edward and Marian Bacon White
November 3, 2008
To the Orr Famly:
Continue to be strong in the Lord. Our prayers are with you. We shall always remember "Mr." Orr as one of our favorite teachers and friends at Roosevelt High School from 1953-1957, and as an advisor during our years working in the Palm Beach County school system.
Sharon Shanklin-Browne
November 3, 2008
Condolences to the Orr family and daughter, Continental Pamela McKenzie. God's blessings be upon you all as He prepares to receive another Saint into the Kingdom.
Please know that all is well with Dr. Orr's soul. Knowing this, may you find peace, joy and understanding as you spend your days reflecting on the goodness of his life.
In the spirit of love and faith, continue the Orr legacy as only our Lord would have you to do - love one another daily.
Lloyd Brown, sr.
November 3, 2008
TO GOD BE THE GLORY, TO ERIC AND THE ORR FAMILY, IT SADDEN ME TO HEAR OF MR. ORR'S PASSING BUT WE ALL KNOW THAT HE IS IN A BETTER PLACE MAY THE LORD WATCH OVER ALL OF YOU NOW IN YOUR TIME OF GRIEVING
Ginger Covington-Stanley
November 3, 2008
Eric, Pam, & Family
My condolences.
Carolyn Cramer
November 3, 2008
Dear Virginia,
Just a line to express my sympathy to you during your family's time of bereavement with the death of your brother.
I have fond memories of you and your lovely manner when I was a young college student.
With warm regards,
Susan Pell
November 3, 2008
You were a great teacher to me as a school board member and a good friend in the years since. I will miss you and your e-mails. You have contributed much to the education of the teachers and students in Palm Beach County. You have made this county a better place.
betty lou mccray-wells
November 3, 2008
DR. ORR.!!!.DR. ORR.!!..OH MY GOD...YOU WERE AND WILL ALWAYS BE AN INSPIRATION AND A POSITIVE ROLE MODEL....LEARNING THE BIOLOGY SKILLS(MITOSIS OF THE CELL.,ETC......)-THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET)..THE SKILLS AND THE STRATEGIES THAT WERE INFUSED IN ALL OF OUR SUBJECTS WILL ALWAYS REMAIN A PART OF ME....THE E-MAILS THAT WERE SENT TO ME...I WILL CHERISH...IF ALL TEACHERS WERE LIKE DR. ORR AND MANY OF THE ONES THAT TAUGHT US AT ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL...WHAT WOULD THIS WORLD BE LIKE???I CAN GIVE YOU A HINT...THE PANTS WOULD BE UP, THE YOUNG LADIES WOULD ACT LIKE LADIES,,REMEMBER ...WE WERE TRULY WATCHED..FROM THE TIME WE REACHED THAT CAMPUS ,UNTIL WE LEFT TO VENTURE ACROSS THE STREETS TO "ALZO"S.....DR. ORR ,YOU ARE A LEGACY....AND WILL ALWAYS BE..".ONE WHO CARED!!!!
H. Shane Darrisaw
November 3, 2008
Brother Orr,
You will be dearly missed! Thanks for all of the advice you gave me over the years that I knew you. I thank you even more for your contribution to the community and to all who knew you. You have the respect of every member of Kappa Alpha Psi and will be missed even though you are in an eternally better place!
Forever yours in the Bond!
Brad Whorl
November 3, 2008
Joe,
You will be missed by us all!
Your loving nephew!
Brad
Edna Jones
November 3, 2008
Mr. Orr was my neighbor in the 1960's on 7th Street in the Westward. I grew up with his children. Pam and I palyed in the Doll House in the families back yard.
May the Lord Bless the family in their time of grief.
HelenIreneRoberts Mays
November 3, 2008
"DearRooseveltHigh,WeLoveThee..."
Mr. JosephOrr was my 10th grade Biology (I) teacher. And I stand steadfast, strong and determined even today because of dedicated, caring teachers and Administrators like JOE ORR, Mariya Gilliam, Bertha Parrish, Britton Sayles and a few others. MAY HE REST IN PEACE! (Amen)
Class of 1969 Roosevelt High
November 3, 2008
You'll always be a part of our history.
You were a great teacher and leader for the Maroone Devils Family.
You'll be missed.
Barbara Walter Walter
November 3, 2008
Working with Dr. Orr was both a privilege and a tutorial in how to be a leader. Dr. Orr was always fair, honest, creative and compassionate. He supported his staff in a way that encourage excellence, He believed in and expected the best students and faculty could achieve. He helped shape the teacher I became, and I am grateful to have known such a fine man. The community has lost a great role model. My sympathy to Linda, his children and other family.
Class of 1969 Roosevelt High
November 3, 2008
You'll always be a part of our history.
You were a great teacher and leader for the Maroone Devils School Family.
You'll be missed.
Linda Pepper
November 3, 2008
Joe Orr was a leader in the finest sense of the word. His objectivity when presented with a problem allowed him to select the best solution; his convictions based on experience and an analytical mind never wavered, giving those who worked with him a firm platform of support. Having a sense of humor and a compassionate nature, he inspired friendship as well as loyalty. Joe Orr created an environment that encouraged superior teacher performance and student achievement.
susan best
November 3, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Karen Yates
November 3, 2008
My deepest and sincere sympathies to Joseph's daughter Pamela McKenzie & her family, siblings & the entire Orr family. May God give you all strength during this difficult time.
Rev Rodney N Smith and Family
November 3, 2008
To the Orr Family:
My dearest childhood friends Eric, Pam and Trayce please accept my condolences in the lost of your father. We had a lot of great times in the Westwood on Crossway in the early days. I don’t know who was tougher Cashus Richardson or Joe Orr but they were great role models for me. May God continue to bless you and keep you and your immediate families. Just remember the better times and how God has brought all of us a mighty long way.
Dr. Orr was a great man who was far ahead of his time as an educator, innovator, and a professional who blaze the trail for others. We all can say he made his mark and so many can be thankful for his contribution to Palm Beach County.
I will keep you all in my prayers.
Kevin Kochersperger
November 3, 2008
Dr. Orr always exemplified compassion, care and true concern to everyone around him. His willingness to stand up to injustice and inequality made him a HERO in education. His effect on our schools and all those that benefit from them was great. His humble demeanor and low key approach did not diminish the true passion he had for our children.
Anyone who knew him knows that they are better for it.
Thank You Dr. Orr!
God Bless his family and may he keep them comforted at this time of loss.
Jerry Kling
November 3, 2008
In the 70’s I was a troubled white youth.
Dr Orr reached out to me because I was going down the wrong road.
I am alive today because of the strength and compassion he taught me.
He changed my life and taught me to “pay it forward” long before it was popular.
Thank you Dr. Orr.
Pandolfo Joseph
November 3, 2008
Dr. Orr was a great educator and a wonderful person. I will always be grateful to Mr. Orr for his support in providing me with what must be considered by first professional computer programming opportunity back in the 1980's when setting up the office for instructional computing.
Thanks Dr. Orr.
Gregory Green
November 3, 2008
Dr. Orr will be sorely missed.
Debbie Johnson
November 3, 2008
My deepest sympathy to you all. Dr. Orr was an amazing man. I had the honor of working under him at Jupiter High School where I interned in 1975. He hired me on as a dean's aide and helped me get my first job teaching. I will be ever grateful for him allowing me to pursue my teaching career which is now in it's 29th year. His kindness and professionalism was outstanding. My the lord be with you in your time of sorrow. Most respectfully, Debbie Bates Johnson, Jupiter High School.
Dolores C. Leffall
November 3, 2008
To the Orr Family,
I am saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend and college classmate. What a guy ! We had such fun in college. Joe was an extraordinary individual and a gentleman. He will never be forgotten.
I pray that God will sustain you doing your time of sorrow. I pray, too, that as time goes by and you are reflecting over the many wonderful years that you had together, that through your tears, your memories will bring a smile to your face.
I will keep the family in prayer.
Jupiter Parent
November 3, 2008
Mr. Orr.... I've known of you for years in the PBC School District... thank you for your dedication and time you gave to the students of Palm Beach County. To your family... thank you for sharing your husband and father with the students of Palm Beach County. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
ORIS AND DOROTHY WALKER
November 3, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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