Angela Sharon Orchard

In Loving Memory of Angela Sharon (Hilton) Orchard
July 20, 1942 – June 16, 2025

Angela Sharon Orchard, affectionately known to many as Sharon, passed away peacefully at home in Arago, surrounded by family. Born on July 20, 1942, in Tampa, Florida, Sharon's life was one of deep connection, heartfelt service, and unwavering joy.

An only child, Sharon grew up in Okeechobee, Florida, where her roots ran deep and her friendships deeper still. She graduated from Okeechobee High School in 1960 and carried those friendships with her throughout her life. A gifted educator, Sharon attended Appalachian State Teachers College in Boone, North Carolina, graduating in 1964. There, she studied alongside dear friends from her hometown, preparing for a career that would impact the lives of countless students. She began her teaching journey in High Point and Reidsville, North Carolina, eventually accepting a position in Fort Bragg-a move that would change her life most profoundly.

It was while teaching at Fort Bragg that she met Paul David Orchard, a proud member of the Special Forces Green Berets. Their love was immediate and enduring. Sharon often referred to David as her "Knight in Shining Armor". Within two weeks, they were engaged. David was deployed to Vietnam. In an extraordinary act of courage and faith, Sharon drove across the country in 1968 to Oregon, where she lived with her future in-laws until David's return. Soon after arriving in Oregon, she secured a teaching position with the Coquille School District. Upon David's safe arrival home, they were married in the house that would soon echo with the laughter and love of their three daughters: Angie, Paula, and Samantha.

Sharon's life was one of resilience. A breast cancer survivor since 1992, she faced life's trials with unmatched grace and strength. David passed away in 1994. At this point, Sharon went back to teaching full-time for the Myrtle Point School District, eventually retiring in 2004. Retirement allowed her to pour her energy into the things and people she loved most.

Always a vibrant presence, Sharon was deeply involved in her community. Over the years, she gave her time generously to organizations such as the Myrtle Point Education Association, the Coquille Art Center, PEO, the Coquille Hospital Auxiliary, the Coquille Senior Center, the Ladies Auxiliary to VFW, and the Council for the Blind. Her passion for life and people was infectious. Whether she was organizing an event, playing cards, or simply chatting with a friend, Sharon made you feel seen, valued and loved.

After retirement, she embraced travel with the same enthusiasm she brought to every other aspect of life. Trips to Branson, Canada, New England, Nova Scotia, Alaska, and back home to Florida for her 50-year high school reunion filled her later years with cherished memories. Her adventures included traveling with her granddaughter Ellise to Sea Turtle Camp in North Carolina-a testament to her enduring curiosity and love of sharing life with those she loved.

In recent years, Sharon found joy in her community at Ocean Ridge, where she built new friendships and stayed active in every way her health allowed. Described by those who knew her as sincere, kind, caring, creative, enthusiastic, and full of "Southern charm," Sharon lived with an open heart.

Above all, Sharon was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her friends and family were the light of her life, bringing her constant joy and pride.

Sharon leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep compassion. Her presence will be profoundly missed but forever felt in the lives she touched. She was the heart of her family and a true example of a life well-lived.

Sharon is survived by daughters: Angie David of Madras, OR.,Paula (Danny) Romine of Arago, OR., and Samantha Orchard of Coquille, OR. Grandchildren include Ellise, Harlee, and Brady David, Rachel (Trey) Fosdick, Brad (Olyvia), Kolton and Luke Romine, and great-grandchildren, Kasen, Sophiea, Jaeda, Cali, Kendrick, Hensley, Charlie and Billie. Sister-in-law Christy Sanders of Myrtle Point, OR.

A celebration of her life will be held from 2:00 - 4:00 on July 20th at the Arago Community Church. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the SW Chapter of the American Council of the Blind, 1290 Fenwick Ave, Coos Bay, OR 97420.

"She made the world a better place simply by being in it."