Precursor Generation
John Alexander Shannon
b. 1820s, Tennessee
d. aft 1860
+ Elizabeth Orr
b. abt. 1831, Tennessee
d. aft. 1870
An extensive DNA study involving numerous testers confirms that Robert Orr's father was Shannon from the line of John Alexander Shannon. The exact identity of Robert's father will never be known with 100% confidence. John Alexander Shannon is the most likely candidate based on a body of circumstantial evidence. His fate after 1860 is unknown.
Orr Generation 1
Robert W. Orr
b. Oct. 3, 1850, Ripley, Tippah County, Mississippi
d. Feb. 9, 1936, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
+ Tabitha Caroline Bray Hughes, February 12, 1873, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Apr. 9, 1837, Henderson County, Tennessee
d. Jan. 10, 1926, Donaldson, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Robert Orr was an orphan initially raised in the household of his Orr grandparents in Mississippi. He grew up as a boarder/laborer in two different Arkansas households — the first headed by John L. Thornton, the second by Edward C. Hughes. Orr was later married to the widow of Edward Hughes. A farmer all of his life, Orr lived the last years of his life in the household of his son, Henry W. Orr.
"My grandmother, Doris Orr, did tell me 'our family secret' that Robert Orr kept his mother's last name. She did not know his father's name though."
— Frank Orr, Oct. 7, 2018
"Mary Elizabeth (Hughes) used to take care of her little brothers, and when Tabitha married Bob Orr and had three more children, she made Bob sleep in another room. She slept with her mother because she was tired taking care of kids. I don't know if this is true but sounds funny anyway."
— Helen Hughes, Sept. 30, 1998, Little Rock, Arkansas
Robert Orr's death certificate lists his father as unknown, his mother as Betty (Orr) Carter, and his cause of death as old age insanity.
I, H. B. Herrin, a duly licensed minister of the Soc. of Primitive Baptists do hereby certify that on the 12th day of February, 1873, in the County of Clark in the state of Arkansas, I did duly join in marriage Robert Orr of said county aged 22 years, and Tabitha C. Hughes of the County of Clark in said sate aged 35 years according to the forms, customs, and ceremonies prescribed by said Primitive Baptist Church, whereof I am a minister, and there and themselves to be husband and wife. Given under my hand. My license recorded in Arkadelphia, Clark County, Ark.
— signed, H. B. Herrin
1860 census, Prairie Township, Hot Spring County, Arkansas — image
- Robert Orr, age 9, born in Arkansas, lived in the household of John L. Thornton. Thornton is age 27, born in TN. His wife, Mary E., is age 27, born in MS. This household also includes these Thornton children: Francia A. 7, Elizabeth 4, James B. 3, Amerson B. 1.
- Marriage records in Hot Spring County, Arkansas, indicate that John L. Thornton married Mary E. McCall Aug. 2, 1854. The Thornton, McCall, and Orr families lived near each other in 1850 in Tippah County, Mississippi.
1870 census, Cedar Township, Clark County, Arkansas
- Robert W. Orr (surname spelled Ore), age 17, born in Mississippi, lived as hired had in the household number 4, for Edward C. Hughes, age 44, born in Tennessee, and Tabitha Caroline Bray Hughes, age 34, born in Tennessee, along with these Hughes children: Matilda 12, Sarah 8, Mary E. 6, William H. 3, Caswell G. 1.
- William Levi Carter (widower to Robert Orr's aunt, Nancy Orr, and ex-husband to Robert Orr's aunt, Margaret Orr) lived near to Edward C. Hughes in household number 20. Robert Orr was known as part of the this Carter family, due to William L. Carter's marriages to Robert's Orr aunts. Two children of William Levi Carter were raised by Robert Orr's grandfather (or great-grandfather), John A. Orr.
1880 census, De Roche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, Sheet 535A — image
- Robert Orr, age 29, b. Mississippi, father's birthplace NC, mother's birthplace NC
Caraline Orr, wife, age 42, b. TN
Mary Orr, daughter, age 16, b. AR
William Orr, son, age 13, b. AR
Calvin Orr, son, age 11, b. AR
Carroll Orr, son, age 6, b. AR
James Orr, son, age 3, b. AR
1900 census, Clark County, Arkansas
- Robert W. Orr, age 49, b. Oct. 1850, b. MS, his father b. AL, his mother b. AL
Tabitha C. Orr, age 63, b. Apr. 1837, b. TN, her father b. NC, her mother b. NC
Madison J. Orr, age 22
Henry W. Orr, age 17
Mary Hughes, age 36
1910 census, Bismarck Township, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, Sheet 2, household 18 — image
- Robert W. Orr, age 59, b. MS
Tabitha C. Orr, age 74, b. TN
Henry W. Orr, age 29, b. AR
Nettie Orr, daughter-in-law, age 20, b. AR
Mary E. Hughes, step-daughter, age 45, b. AR
1920 census, Clark County, Arkansas
- Robert W. Orr, head of household, age 69, born MS, his father born MS, his mother born MS
Tabitha C. Orr, wife, age 82, born TN
Mary Hughes, step-daughter, age 56
1930 census, Clark County, Arkansas
- H. W. Orr's household included Robert W. Orr (age 79, born AR, his father born AR, his mother born AR).
Oral history exchanged among the Orr family states that Robert Orr was a horse thief and wasn't really an Orr — that he suddenly appeared in Malvern, Arkansas, and had to change his name from Carter to Orr to conceal his whereabouts from the law. The reputation of Robert Orr seems to have been particularly vulnerable in the 1920s, during and after problematic administration of the estate of his wife, Tabitha Bray Hughes Orr.
We know that Robert Orr came to Arkansas in different context. However, it is easy to see how this legend derived from one or more of the following conditions before and during Robert's life:
- Robert's assumption of his mother's Orr surname, per 19th century custom for births outside of a marriage. In terms of paternal descent, Robert was not an Orr.
- Robert's paternal descent from a Shannon line (proved by DNA testing) known to include infamous horse thieves (Moses P. Shannon, b. 1790s, trial and murder in 1830s Arkansas Territory) and a horse theft operation which transported horses from Tennessee through Mississippi and Arkansas Territory across the U.S. border into lawless Mexico (lands now part of Texas).
- Robert's ties to William L. Carter, a neighbor in both Mississippi and Arkansas — and a widower to Robert Orr's aunt, Nancy Orr, and ex-husband to Robert Orr's aunt, Margaret Orr.
- William L. Carter's possible (unproved) association with the Shannon horse theft operation extending through Carter's residencies in both 1850s Tippah County, Mississippi, and 1830s Jackson County, Tennessee.
- Various events associated with the life of another Carter male — LeRoy C. Carter, b. abt. 1841, Jackson County, Tennessee.
- The kinship of LeRoy Carter to William L. Carter is undocumented. However, they were both residents of Jackson County, Tennessee, in the 1830s.
- In 1872, LeRoy C. Carter suddenly fled from his family in Tennessee, said to be running from law enforcement. LeRoy C. Carter's crime may have been horse theft, though this is undocumented.
- If LeRoy Carter had been involved in the horse theft organization, then LeRoy Carter could have sought refuge in Arkansas in or near the household of his crime partner, William L. Carter (a neighbor of the widow of Edward Hughes and her hired hand, Robert Orr). This could have triggered the account of a horse thief suddenly arriving in Malvern, Arkansas, and needing to (change one's name to) hide from the law.
- Relocation of LeRoy Carter's Veteto in-laws in the 1870s from Jackson County, Tennessee, to Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas.
- Subsequent relocation of LeRoy C. Carter to Tahlequah, Indian Territory — where LeRoy's younger brother, Jim Veteto Carter, had been living. Another Orr relative, Pinkney Erwin Nichols, was known to visit Tahlequeh regularly. Pinkney Nichols' wife, Mattie Missouri Fennell, died in Tahlequah (then Oklahoma) in 1915.
"Halloween has, in the past, been a time of practical jokes, ghosts and goblins, staying out late at night and avoiding the cemetery as much as possible. You have heard many pranks related and much of it was mischief.
"Years ago Buddy Orr of Midway had this brand new wagon and was naturally proud of it. One Halloween night as the boys went down the road, wondering what pranks to play, they spied this bright new wagon and decided to push it down to the neighbor's barn yard and bring back the neighbor's old wagon and leave it in the place of the new one.
"They heaved and hauled; some pushed and some pulled and finally got the new wagon down to the neighbor's. Up spoke a voice and said, 'Now I helped you push it down here, you can help me push it back.'
"There was Buddy Orr, big as life. He had come out to see what was going on and had joined the crowd. They good naturedly helped him push it back to where it belonged."
— Malvern Daily Record, Malvern, Arkansas, Friday, Oct. 31, 1975
Orr Generation 2
C. C. Orr
b. May 19, 1874, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Aug 23, 1943, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas tombstone
+ Jenettie Evelyn Nichols, Aug. 12, 1894
b. July 12, 1878, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. June 15, 1965, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas tombstone
- Baby Orr
- J. Austin Orr
- Lacy Orr
- Myrtle Orr
- Bertha Orr
- Lelia Mae Orr
- Mary Elsie Orr
- Raymond Orr
- Herman Carroll Orr
C. C. Orr was a farmer who raised cattle, corn, cotton, and hay. C.C. Orr was married to Jenettie Nichols at the DeRoche Church, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, by Pastor Sam Houston. In about 1925 C. C. Orr moved his family to Arkadephia, Clark County, Arkansas – in part so his family could live in a town with electricity. He purchased the Ham Brothers Grocery, which became known as Orr Grocery.
C.C. Orr's draft registration card for World War I lists his name as Carroll C. Orr. (7)
1880 census, De Roche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas — image
- Carroll Orr, age 6, b. AR, son of Robert Orr, age 39, b. MS, and Caraline Orr, age 42, b. TN
1900 census, Bismarck, Henderson & Valley Townships, Hot Spring County, Arkansas — image
- Collumbus C. Orr, head, age, 26, b. AR
Gennette Orr, wife, age 22, b. AR
Auston Orr, son, age 3, b. AR
Lacy Orr, son, age 2, b. AR
1910 census, Bismarck Township, Hot Spring County, Arkansas — image
- Christerfor C. Orr, head, age 35, b. AR, father b. TN, mother b. MS
Genette Orr, wife, age 31, b. AR, father b. AL, mother b. AR
Osten Orr, son, age 13, b. AR
Lacie Orr, son, age 11, b. AR
Myrtle Orr, daughter, age 8, b. AR
Bertha Orr, daughter, age 4, b. AR
Lelah Orr, daughter, age 1 year, 9 months, b. AR
1920 census, Prairie Township, Hot Spring County, Arkansas — image
- Colunbus C. Orr, head, age 45, b. AR
Jenettie Orr, wife, age 41, b. AR
Lacie Orr, son, age 21, b. AR
Myrtle Orr, daughter, age 18, b. AR
Bertha Orr, daughter, age 14, b. AR
Lela Orr, daughter, age 11, b. AR
Elsie Orr, daughter, age 8, b. AR
1930 census, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas> — image
- C. C. Orr, head, age 53, b. AR
Jeannette Orr, wife, age 51, b. AR
Elsie Orr, daughter, age 18, b. AR
Herman Orr, son, age 8, b. AR
1940 census, Ward 2, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas — image
- C. C. Orr, head, age 66, b. AR
Janet Orr, wife, age 56, b. AR
Herman C. Orr, son, age 18, b. AR
Orr Generation 3
Baby Orr
b. Jun. 22, 1895, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Jun. 22, 1895, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas; buried DeRoche Cemetery, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
J. Austin Orr
b. May 18, 1896, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Feb. 7, 1968, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Doris Killingsworth, Jan. 22, 1921, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Aug. 4, 1901, Okolona, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Apr. 30, 1994, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
- James Edward Orr
J. Austin Orr was a barber and had from six to eight barbers working for him. He had a small cattle farm outside Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
J. Austin Orr served as a U.S. soldier in France during World War I. In 1918 he was on a train headed for the front as a replacement, when the train suddenly stopped. He and his fellow soldiers saw a big celebration going on. When they jumped off the train, they learned that the Armistice had been signed.
When Austin and Lacy, his younger brother, were boys, neither had a middle name. They decided that they each wanted an initial. Austin added the leading "J", which he used throughout his life.
Orr Generation 4
James Edward Orr
b. Aug. 8, 1929, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Oct. 11, 2011, Gadsden, Alabama
+ Virginia Ruth Cavness, May 16, 1950, Corpus Christi, Texas
b. Nov. 9, 1931, San Marcus, Texas
d. Oct. 17, 2011, Gadsden, Alabama
- Roseline Susanne "Rozanne" Orr
- Frank Edward Orr
- Blake Austin Orr
James Edward Orr
James "Jim" Edward Orr, 82, of Gadsden, AL died Tuesday October 11, 2011 at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Cremation services provided by Collier-Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
He was born August 8, 1929 in Arkadelphia, AR the son of the late J. Austin and Doris Killingsworth Orr. He graduated from Arkadelphia High School in 1947. He attended the University of Corpus Christi where he met the love of his life for the past 61 years, Virginia Caveness. They returned to Arkadelphia where they graduated from Ouachita Baptist University in 1952.
Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant through Army ROTC, he served as a platoon leader and company commander in the 7th Infantry Division in Korea. Returning to Arkadelphia, he spent 2 years with Elk Horn Bank, then began his long tenure with Ouachita Baptist University. He started as assistant business manager and eventually became Vice President for Finance. During his time he served two 5 years terms on the Arkadelphia School Board as secretary and president. He was an active cattle farmer for many years in Clark County. In 1975 he left OBU, and began working for Baptist Memorial Geriatric Center in San Angelo, TX.
In 1985, at age 56 he retired and lived out his dream in Angel Fire, NM. He worked 7 years as a ski instructor in winter and managed the trout fishing lake in the summer for Angel Fire Resort. While in New Mexico he was an avid golfer, hunter, fisherman, skier, and hiker. He was a long time member of Angel Fire Unity Church. He spent 6 years at Harbor Place in Corpus Chrisit, TX and recently moved to Regency Pointe in Gadsden where he thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful fellowship and good friends he made during his short stay there.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia Caveness Orr; one daughter, Rozanne Yancey (Don) of Pflugerville, TX; two sons, Dr. Frank E. Orr (Susie) of Gadsden, AL and Blake A. Orr (Ruth) of Marquette, KS; six grandchildren, Rebekah Brunton (Jason) Pflugerville, TX, Dr. Brian Orr, Tampa, FL, Scott Orr (Natalie) Birmingham, AL, Austin Orr, Corpus Christi, TX, Katie and Lisa Orr, Marquette, KS and two great-grandchildren, Carrington Orr and Jake Brunton.
Virginia C. "Jina" Orr
Virginia C. "Jina" Orr, 79, of Gadsden, AL died Monday, October 17, 2011 at McGuffey Health and Rehab Facility in Gadsden. Cremation services provided by Collier-Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
She was born November 9, 1931 in San Marco, TX, the daughter of the late Dr. Raymond m. Cavness and Maureen Sweeten Cavness. Growing up she lived in several locations in Texas, Florida and New York following her father’s Navy assignments during WWII. She graduated from Uvalde High School in Texas in 1948. She began her college years at the University of Corpus Christi the following year. This is where she met her soul mate of 61 years, James (Jim) Orr, who passed away last week. They transferred to Jim’s hometown of Arkadelphia, Ark. to attend Ouachita Baptist University. She graduated magna cum laude in 1952 and received a Masters degree from OBU in 1967. She began her teaching career in a one-room school house in Curtis Junction, Ark. In 1968 she became Director of Social Work Services at the newly opened Arkadelphia Unit of the Arkansas Childrens Colony for developmentally delayed children.
In 1975, the family moved to San Angelo, TX where she taught school there until she and Jim moved to Angel Fire, NM in 1985. While in Angel Fire she thoroughly enjoyed living the mountain lifestyle. She worked as a concierge for the Angel Fire Resort Hotel and spend a couple of seasons working in the Kids Ski School. She was a long time member of Angel Fire Unity Church. For the last 10 years of her life, her husband Jim was constantly by her side as her primary caretaker as she battles Alzheimer’s disease. After 6 years at Harbor Place in Corpus Christi, they moved to Regency Pointe in Gadsden, AL to be closer to family.
Survivors include one daughter, Rozanne Yancey (Don) of Pflugerville, TX; two sons, Dr. Frank E. Orr (Susie) of Gadsden, AL and Blake A. Orr (Ruth) of Marquette, KS; six grandchildren, Rebekah Brunton (Jason) Pflugerville, TX; Dr. Brian Orr, Tampa, FL; Scott Orr (Natalie), Birmingham, AL; Austin Orr, Corpus Christi, TX; Katie and Lisa Orr, Marquette, KS; and 2 great-grandchildren, Carrington Orr and Jake Brunton; two sisters, Ramona Cavness Quirey (Jack), East Bernard, TX; Rosalind Cavness Rambie (Johnny), Uvalde, TX; one brother, Dr. Lattie Cavness (Lynn), Piney Flats, TN.
A joint memorial service for both Jim and Gina Orr was held October 25, 2011, at Rose Hill Cemetery, Arkadelphia, Arkansas, by Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home in Arkadelphia.
Orr Generation 5
Roselin Susanne "Rozanne" Orr
b. Apr. 9, 1953, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas
d. Aug. 20, 2018, Kyle, Texas
+ 1) Thomas William Andrews, July 23, 1973, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas, div.
+ 2) Don Yancey
Frank Edward Orr
+ Susie
Frank Edward Orr has worked in oral surgery in Gadsden, Alabama.
Blake Austin Orr
+ Ruth
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Lacy Orr
b. Aug. 3, 1898, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Sep., 6, 1963, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Lillian Cash, Dec. 11, 1923, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
b. Oct. 5, 1899, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, daughter of James R. and his first wife, Fannie
d. Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
- Baby Orr
- Betty Lou Orr
- Frances Sue Orr
- Charles Wayne Orr
Lacy Orr assumed administration of Orr's Grocery Store, established by C. C. Orr. In the 1960s Lacy relocated the store from Clay Street to a new building on a lot next to his residence on South 12th Street. He ran that business with his son Charles.
"Lillian Cash was the daughter of J.R. Cash and his first wife, Fannie A. Gilcrease or Gilchrist. Shortly after the birth of Lilian's brother, J.E. Cash, their mother died. Mr. Cash then married Nora Neighbors. I believe Lilian Cash and her siblings were cared for by Nora and J.R."
— Charlotte Ellis Pate, Mar. 25, 1999
When Lacy and his older brother, Austin, were boys, neither had a middle name. They decided that they each wanted an initial. Lacy added a "W", but only as a temporary addition.
The residence at 503 S. Seventh Street in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, appears as the Lacy Orr Property in the Clark County Architectural Survey, 1983-2001, published by the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program. This home, originally constructed for C. C. Orr, was destroyed by tornado in 1997.
Orr Generation 4
Baby Orr
male, died 1928 in premature birth
Betty Lou Orr
b. Aug. 11, 1929
d. Feb. 27, 1999, Ruston, Louisiana; buried Arkadelphia, Arkansas
Betty Lou Orr, 69, a teacher at Louisiana Tech University, died Saturday. The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Kilpatrick Funeral Home chapel, Ruston [LA]. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. today at the funeral home. Burial will be at Rose Hill Cemetery, Arkadelphia, Ark.
— Shreveport Times, Shreveport, Louisiana; March 2, 1999
Frances Sue Orr
b. Feb. 24, 1931, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. June 14, 2002
+ Edward F. Erwin, Nov. 14, 1959, Mena, Arkansas
b. Feb. 17, 1926, McNabb, Arkansas
d. Dec. 1998
- Paul Michael Erwin
- Jeffrey Alan Erwin
Frances "Sue" Erwin, 71, of Hot Springs died June 14, 2002. She was born Feb. 24, 1931 in Arkadelphia, daughter of the late Lacy Orr and Lillian Cash Orr. She was a retired educator and a member of Richard Street Church of Christ. She was the widow of Edward F. Erwin.
Survivors include: Two sons, Mike Erwin of Magnet Cove and Jeff Erwin of Hot Springs; a brother Charles Orr of Arkadelphia; and five grandchildren. Funeral was today in Gross Funeral Home of Hot Springs with Joe Thompson officiating. Burial was in Crestview Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Steve Orr, Ron King, James Davis, Bobby Hampton, Bobby Downs and Roger Tolleson. Honorary pallbearers were Sisters of Mercy, Dr. I. David Rogers, Advance Care Hospital, and St. Joseph's Mercy Health Center.
Memorials may be made to the Sue Erwin Library Fund for Mt. Pine School, 198 Mallard Lane, Malvern, Ark. 72104.
Charles Wayne Orr
b. July 6, 1936, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Mar. 31, 2005, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Sarah Laverne Cox, Dec. 20, 1958, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. June 14, 1936, Arkadelplhia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. April 28, 2013, Arkadelplhia, Clark County, Arkansas
- Charles Stephen Orr
- Janet Lynne Orr
Charles Wayne Orr
Charles Orr, 68, of Arkadelphia died Thursday, March 31, 2005, at Baptist Health Medical Center-Arkadelphia. He was born July 6, 1936, in Arkadelphia, the son of the late Lacy and Lillian Cash Orr. He and his family owned and operated Orr's Grocery in Arkadelphia for many years. He was an employee of the Ouachita Marine Boat Sales, a salesman for Shepherd Auto Sales and a rural mail carrier in Gurdon. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of First Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Betty L. Orr and Sue Erwin.
Survivors include: His childhood sweetheart and wife of 48 years, Laverne Cox Orr; one son, Steve Orr of Arkadelphia; one daughter, Jan Parsons, and her husband, Odas, of Arkadelphia; two grandchildren, Reagan and Taylor Parsons of Arkadelphia; and one step-granddaughter, Heather Parsons of Searcy.
Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2, 2005, in Ruggles-Wilcox Chapel with Dr. Tom Martin, Dr. John Small and Rev. Faron Rogers officiating. Burial will be in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens.
Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, First Baptist Church Arms Around Arkadelphia, American Cancer Society or Second Baptist Church Building Fund.
Laverne Orr
Laverne Cox Orr, age 76, of Arkadelphia, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2013 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born June 14, 1936 in the Hearn Community the daughter of the late Lawis Ward Cox and Lois West Cox. Laverne was a member of First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia where she was in the Friendship Sunday School class. She attended Henderson State University and graduated with a BSN, RN degree from UAMS with the school's 2nd class of nursing in June of 1958. Laverne worked at Clark County Memorial Hospital, Clark County Nursing Homes and retired from Clark County Health Department after twenty-one years as a clinic nurse. She married her high school sweetheart, Charles W. Orr on December 20, 1958.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles "Charlie" Orr; and one sister, Betty Ruth Cox.
Survivors are a son, Steve Orr and wife, Vickie of Malvern; a daughter, Jan Orr Parsons and husband, Odas; a acquired special daughter, Brenda Gills all of Arkadelphia; two precious granddaughters,, Reagan and Taylor Parsons; three step-grandchildren, Heather Parsons and husband, Andrew, Mary Lee Brown, Jason Dyer and wife, Amanda; two step-great-grandchildren, Adyson and Camryn Dyer.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Tuesday, April 30th at First Baptist Church with Dr. Lee McGlone officiating. Burial will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 6-8 PM Monday at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or to American Cancer Society.
Orr Generation 5
Charles Stephen "Steve" Orr
living
Janet Lynne Orr
living
Odas Parsons and Jan Orr Parsons, Facebook mobile upload, March 2017
Jan Orr Parsons and daughters, Facebook cover photo, 2017
+ Odas Parsons
living
- Reagan Parsons
- Taylor Parson
Jan Orr Parsons studied sociology at Ouachita Baptist University and worked at Twin Rivers Health and Rehab, both in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Odas Parson studied at Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, Arkansas. He was principal at Arkadelphia High School, Arkadelphia, Arkansas, and Assoc. Director for special projects at the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs.
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Myrtle Orr
b. Sep. 1, 1901, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Dec. 26, 1979, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Lawrence Smith, May 20, 1923, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
b. May 1, 1899, Malvern, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Jan. 28, 1952, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
- Harold Smith
- Mary Evelyn Smith
Myrtle Orr Smith worked for the food service department at Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Lawrence Smith was employed at Cotton Oil Mills.
Orr Generation 4
Harold Smith
b. May 7, 1925, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Shirley Wheeler, Aug. 15, 1954, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Feb. 7, 1930, Jenny Lind, Arkansas
- Marcia Denise Smith
Mary Evelyn Smith
b. Nov. 1, 1929, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Lee Boulden, Jan. 10, 1951, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
- Robert Alan Boulden
- Barbara Anne Boulden
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Bertha Orr
b. Jan. 14, 1906, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. July 5, 1988, Houston, Texas
+ Bruce Dennis Gregory, Nov. 21, 1926, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas
b. Apr. 8, 1895, Athens, Tennessee
- Carolyn Beth Gregory
- Mary Kathryn Gregory
- Calvin Dailey "Buddy" Gregory
Bertha Orr Gregory worked for a Houston department store. Bruce Gregory served in the army during World War I and worked as a civilian on the Alcan highway pipeline through Alaska and Canada during World War II. He worked in Houston as a carpenter.
Orr Generation 4
Carolyn Beth Gregory
b. Feb. 17, 1928, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. March 10, 2010, Houston, Texas
+ James Willis Thompson, Jr., June 2, 1945, Monroe, LA
b. Oct. 9, 1921, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Nov. 27, 1987, Houston, Texas
- Kathy Jo Hock Thompson
- Rebecca Ann Thompson
- Philip Gregory Thompson
Carolyng Beth Gregory Thompson was a pioneering woman in the field of antiques sales. She was the owner of Carolyn Thompson's Antique Center of Texas in Houston.
Carolyng Beth Gregory Thompson... died Wednesday, March 10, 2010, in a local hospital. She had just turned 82, having been a fixture in the antiques business for more than 50 years. Thompson was one of the founding members of Houston Antiques Dealers Association and served terms as an early president. Thompson, daughter of Depression-era construction contractor Bruce Dennis Gregory and his wife Bertha, was born in Arkadelphia, Arkansas Feb. 17, 1928.
She literally launched her antiques business as a child in Arkansas by spending time in her grandfather's grocery store where she saw him buy, sell and horse-trade everything by the wagonload. Thompson married and started the wifely chore of furnishing the "first house" with whatever she could put together in the years after World War II. Then she started to discover "things that I didn't see in every house" to use to decorate the growing family's house. Recently she said, "I haven't finished decorating my second house yet. I change furniture like some people change clothes."
Carolyn married James Willis Thompson Jr., an industrial engineer for Shell Oil, in 1946. They had three children, Kathy, Rebecca and Phil. In the early 1950s, the family moved to Houston. He served as an engineer and surveyor for Industrial Gas Supply and became regional manager for Lone Star Gas Co. As the health of Mr. Thompson deteriorated (he died in 1982), Carolyn took her garage and estate sales more seriously after making her mark as the only woman on a large advertising company's staff. Carolyn's job was organizing product demonstrations and carnivals at places like Palm Center, Braeswood Shopping Center, Gulfgate Mall and Maplewood Shopping Center. It wasn't unusual to find carnival operators with Tilt-a-Whirl rides in trailers outside the Thompson residence, where they had breakfast while planning their next promotion.
Carolyn could have been the inspiration of the current "Pickers" television show detailing the thrill-of-the-hunt adventures of antiques and collectibles dealers. In the mid-1960s she frequently shadowed garage and estate sales with son Phil. He ran up and viewed the pickings and sometimes shouted out, "Come here, Momma, it's a good one!" They would pack their station wagon with glassware, small collectibles, art and antique furniture. They started with a little weekend outdoor shop at Southwest Flea Market on Westpark. Carolyn was the first to organize antiques shows at Astrohall and Astroarena and opened her first free-standing shop at Woodhead and Fairview in Montrose. She once did 35 antiques shows a year in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Kansas and Arkansas. Her business eventually merited a larger facility in the River Oaks Shopping Center and later on Shepherd across from the Alabama Theater.
In 1991, Carolyn was in her early 60s but never thought of retiring. She began a joint venture to open the Antique Center of Texas, the Southwest's largest antiques mall, at 1001 West Loop North. She and partner Tony Bradfield sorted out the "bests" and "worsts" of malls throughout the nation, accentuating the former and avoiding the latter. They developed roomy well-lighted aisles, prompt attention from aisle clerks and easy steps to arrange the delivery of large purchases from 200 dealers on 12 aisles, with 120,000 square feet of shopping. In 1993, Thompson bought out Bradfield and changed the name of the business to Carolyn Thompson's Antique Center of Texas. The mall located three exits down the 610 Loop from Galleria attracts collectors and dealers from all over the world.
In the 1980s Carolyn was honored by Mayor Kathy Whitmire and City Council on Carolyn Thompson Day, calling her one of Houston's most prominent businesswomen and entrepreneurs. Carolyn stuck to a "tell-it-like-it-is" approach to the antiques business and scoffed at closing-shop rumors during bad economic times. "The only way I'll be leaving here," she said recently from her office, "is feet first." Indeed, she had just made one of her famous "buys" and was issuing instructions to her staff on the pricing and marketing of the collectibles involved via phone from her hospital bed the day before she died.
The Carolyn Thompson antiques legacy continues. The family will carry on at the present location under the direction of company general manager Gabe Santiago and the Thompson family. The store closed Wednesday, March 10, but reopened the next day. It will be closed for Carolyn's memorial service at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010 at Unity Church, 2929 Unity Drive @ Hillcroft in Houston. It will reopen at 1 p.m. for business and a reception in which friends may share memories of Carolyn.
Survivors are daughters Kathy Thompson Zingery and Rebecca Ann Thompson; son Phillip Gregory Thompson, wife Rebecca Parker Thompson and grandsons James Parker "J.P." Thompson and Daniel Hunter Thompson; brother, Calvin Daily "Uncle Buddy" Gregory of Fort Worth and sister, Mary Kathryn Gregory Shepard of Sugar Land; nephews and nieces Ronnie, Kevin, Sammy and Richard Gregory and Robert Don Shepard and Susan Shepard Howard. Other survivors include special family friend Lee LaForge and an extended family of the Antique Center staff and dealers.
Carolyn Thompson lived the adventure of not knowing "what you're going to find tomorrow" in the fascinating world of antiques and collectibles. The "picker blood" was always present and she was literally buying and selling antiques every day of her life.
— Houston Chronicle, March 13, 2010
Orr Generation 5
Kathy Jo Hock Thompson
+ Gordon Worth Zingery, Sr.
Gordon Worth Zinger is the father of these children through a previous marriage:(8)
- Penny Lee Zingery Smith
- Gordon W. Zingery, Jr.
- Richard Zingery (twin)
- Robert Zingery (twin)
- Melissa Zingery Sager (twin)
- Melinda Zingery Anderson (twin)
- Jennifer Zingery Newton
Rebecca Ann Thompson
Philip Gregory Thompson
+ Rebecca Lynn Parker
- James Parker Thompson
- Daniel Hunter Thompson
Orr Generation 4 cont.
Mary Kathryn Gregory
+ Robert Don Shepard, May 30, 1958, Houston, Texas
- Robert Don Shepard, Jr.
- Bruce Dennis Shepard
- Susan Kay Shepard
Calvin Dailey "Buddy" Gregory
b. Apr. 12, 1932, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Dec. 27, 2021, Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas
+ 1) Martha Marilyn Bailey, Dec. 23, 1951, Gurdon, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Nov. 1932
d. 2010
- Samuel Dailey Gregory
- Ronald William Gregory
- Kevin Joseph Gregory
- Richard Alan Gregory
+ 2) Sharon Rappa, July 13, 2013, Fort Worth, Texas
Calvin Dailey Gregory
Calvin "Buddy" Dailey Gregory, 89, a loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away to his eternal heavenly home on Monday, Dec. 27, 2021.
Calvin Daily Gregory was born April 12, 1932, to Bruce Dennis Gregory and Bertha Orr Gregory in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He attended Arkadelphia High School. In 1950, he graduated high school and he joined the Arkansas Army National Guard, 39th Infantry Division. On Jan. 2, 1951, he joined the United States Air Force. On Dec. 23, 1951, he married Martha Marilyn Bailey in Gurdon, Arkansas. Together, they raised four sons, and they shared 58 years of marriage.
During Calvin's over 26 years of military service in the USAF, he was stationed at various places, including Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, Moody AFB in Valdosta, Ga., Kimpo AFB in Korea, Eaker AFB in Blytheville, Ark., Perrin AFB in Sherman, Texas, Hickam AFB in Honolulu, Hawaii, England AFB in Alexandria, La., Keflavik AFB in Iceland, Carswell AFB in Fort Worth, Texas, Dyess AFB in Abilene, Texas, Minot AFB in Minot, N.D., then back to Carswell AFB in Fort Worth, Texas. During his service time at Moody AFB, in late 1952, he was sent to Korea in the war zone, and he was stationed in Korea for one year. His occupation in the USAF was a Food Service Specialist, and later he became a Diet Therapy Supervisor. Through the years, he helped feed many hungry service men and women. Some of the military awards he earned include The Air Force Commendation Medal, The National Defense Service Medal, The Korean War Service Medal and The Air Force Longevity Service Award. He retired on Aug. 31, 1975, at the rank of Master Sergeant (MSGT). After retiring from the USAF, he worked for 17 years at the Fort Worth State School as their Nutrition Service Supervisor.
Calvin enjoyed outdoor activities, and he served as a scoutmaster for the Boy Scout Troop that his sons were scouts in. As a scoutmaster, he helped his sons and other young men to learn many life skills. His hobbies included: taking his family camping on weekends, cooking, fishing, deer hunting, motorcycle riding and marksmanship.
Calvin's nickname was "Buddy", as he was able to make friends wherever he went, due to his outgoing and friendly personality. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren affectionately called him Papaw, and he always enjoyed spending time with them.
Calvin joined Birchman Baptist Church of Fort Worth on July 24, 2011. After over three years of being a widower, on July 13, 2013, he married Sharon Rappa, whom he had met in their Sunday School class. In June of 2017, Calvin gave a public testimony of his faith in Jesus Christ, and was baptized.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Bertha Gregory; and wife, Martha Marilyn Gregory. Survivors: Wife, Sharon Rappa Gregory; stepdaughter, Sherylyn Klair; four sons, Samuel Gregory and wife, Janis, Ronald Gregory and wife, Susan, Kevin Gregory and wife, Sara and Richard Gregory and wife, Susy; grandchildren, Joey and wife, Tanya, Samuel and wife, Morgan, Sean, Adam and wife, Dena, Daniel, Hannah and husband, Nathan, Benjamin, Matthew, Melinda, Andrew and Nathan; step-grandchildren, Sasha, Sophia, Summer, Gabriel and Michael; great-grandchildren, Kinsey, Carter, Carson, Tommy, Grant, Savannah, Natalie and Rebecca; and also a host of many other family and friends.
He is dearly loved and will be greatly missed!
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Lelia Mae Orr
b. July 29, 1908, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. April 7, 1973, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ Benjamin Wyatt Hathaway, Feb. 2, 1930, Malvern, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
b. Aug. 31, 1903, Hamburg, Ashley County, Arkansas
d. Dec. 16, 1944, Hamburg, Ashley County, Arkansas
- Benjamin Wyatt Hathaway, Jr.
Lelia Mae Orr Hathaway worked as a clerk at Ben Franklin's and later at Dew-Orr Home Center, both in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
Orr Generation 4
Benjamin Wyatt Hathaway, Jr.
b. Apr. 17, 1936, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. May 19, 2010, North Little Rock, Arkansas
+ Marr Jean McDonald, Oct. 18, 1959, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, daughter of Boyce and Maxine McDonald
b. Aug. 21, 1937, Benton, Arkansas
d. June 19, 2015
- Randall Jeffrey Hathaway
- Kimberly Lyn Hathaway
- Todd McDonald Hathaway
- Bradley Wyatt Hathaway
Benjamin W. Hathaway, Jr., age 74, of North Little Rock passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2010. He was born to the late Benjamin W. and Lelia Mae Orr Hathaway in Arkadelphia, AR. Ben was preceded in death by his parents; and two children, Kimberly Lynn and Todd McDonald Hathaway.
He was a member of Park Hill Baptist Church. Ben retired from the Army Corps of Engineers, was an Army Veteran and retired as a Colonel in the Army Reserves. He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be missed by all that knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Marr Jean McDonald Hathaway; two sons, Randy Hathaway and wife, Karen of Maumelle and Bradley Wyatt Hathaway of North Little Rock; two grandchildren, Kristin and Caleb Hathaway.
Graveside service will be at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, May 22, 2010, at Rest Hills Memorial Park with Reverend Bob Harper officiating. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m., Friday, May 21, 2010 at Roller-Owens Funeral Home.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Arkansas Children's Hospital, #1 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR 72202.
Orr Generation 5
Randall Jeffrey Hathaway
living
+ Karen Ann Wadley
- Kristin Leigh Hathaway
- Caleb Jeffrey Hathaway
Kimberly Lyn Hathaway
b. Aug. 5, 1963
d. July 26, 1984
Todd McDonald Hathaway
b. Sept. 25, 1971
d. July 27, 1984
Bradley Wyatt Hathaway
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Mary Elsie Orr
b. Oct. 4, 1911, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. July 27, 2003, Houston, Texas
+ John "Jack" Lucas Bartram, Apr. 13, 1935, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Sep. 17, 1909, Eagle Mills, Arkansas
d. Aug. 29, 1997, Houston, Texas
- Mary Jeanette Bartram
- Sarah Patricia Bartram
Elsie Orr Bartram was manager of the C. W. Vogus Department Store in Houston. Her hobbies have focused on ceramics and arts and crafts. She was an instructor for several years at the Bellfort Ceramics Shop in Houston.
Jack Bartram served in the Army Air Corps as a Tech sergeant and Flight Engineer during World War II. Jack was assigned to England and participated in combat missions over the Rhineland and Central Europe. He retired from the Army Corps of Engineers (Federal civil service) in 1973.
Orr Generation 4
Mary Jeanette Bartram
Living
+ A. W. McCormick, Jr., Oct. 30, 1956, Houston, Texas
b. Nov. 15, 1934, Houston, Texas
d. Nov. 1, 1995, Houston, Texas
- Richard Dale McCormick
- Ronald Atwell McCormick
- Deborah Gay McCormick
- Shelly Renee McCormick
Sarah Patricia Bartram
Living
+ Paul Alvin James, April 30, 1993
Living
Sarah Bartram James studied at the University of Houston and worked at Texas Heart Institute, Houston, Texas. Paul James worked as an electrician at St Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Houston, Texas.
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Raymond Orr
b. Oct. 15, 1916, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Oct. 15, 1916, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Herman Carroll Orr
b. June 21, 1921, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Jan. 14, 1994, Little Rock, Pulaski County, Arkansas
+ 1) Floy Dew, Feb. 6, 1944, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Dec. 6, 1922, Parkdale, Ashley County, Arkansas
d. May 5, 1980, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
+ 2) Zelda Campbell Wesson, Jan. 30, 1981, Nashville, Howard County, Arkansas
b. Dec. 11, 1932, Nashville, Howard County, Arkansas
d. Dec. 31, 2017, Texarkana, Texas
After return to the U.S. from service in the European front in World War II, Herman Orr established Dew-Orr Department Store in his hometown in partnership with his father-in-law, Harry Lee Dew. More than a war hero, businessman or community servant, Herman was a man who loved his family, friends, and country.
Herman Carroll Orr's personal papers indicate that he served in the U.S. Army as a 1st Lieutenant during World War II with Company F, 180th Infantry Battalion, 45th Infantry Division. Herman participated in campaigns from Anzio to Rome and was in the first wave of the invasion of Southern France. He received the Purple Heart on Sep. 7, 1944, near Baum Les Danes, France.
U.S. Army records indicate service number 18 067 163; service from August 27, 1942, to September 26, 1943; honorable discharge; and last rank of corporal. This information — an incomplete account — reflects the loss of 1940s era Army records, which burned in a fire in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1973.
"Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Dew of Arkadelphia announce the marriage of their youngest daughter, Floy, to Lt. Herman C. Orr, son of Mrs. C. C. Orr and the late Mr. Orr of Arkadelphia.
"The wedding was solemnized in the presence of the immediate families and a few close friends at 3 o'clock Sunday afternoon, February 6, at the home of the bride's parents, with the Rev. Robert E. Naylor, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia, officiating.
"The single ring ceremony was performed before an improvised altar of southern smilax with seven-branched candelabra and baskets of white snap-dragons reflected in a square mirror above the fireplace. Preceding the ceremony the candles were lighted by Miss Jessie Faye Wright of Mt. Ida and Miss Wanda Lane of Hope, both classmates of the bride at Henderson State Teachers College.
"The bride, who was given in marriage by her father, was lovely in a dressmaker's suit of green. Her accessories were black and her corsage was of purple orchids. "Ava Maria" was played softly throughout the ceremony.
"Mrs. J.D. Henderson, sister of the bride, was her only attendant. She wore a dress of gold wool with talisman rosebuds in her hair. Lt. Winfred Maddox, Fort Benning, Georgia, served the groom as best man.
"Immediately following the ceremony an informal reception was held. The bride's table was covered with a lace cloth and the centerpiece was of white roses and gardenias. The three tiered wedding cake topped by a miniature bride and bridegroom was reflected in a round mirror which was encircled with fern.
"After the cake was cut by the bride with a saber placed in her hand by Lt. Orr it was served by Miss Margaret Hollingsworth of El Dorado and Arkadelphia. Miss Ann Wilkerson of Arkadelphia presided at the punch bowl. Others assisting in the dining room were Mrs. Bruce Gregory, Miss Carolyn Gregory, and Miss Evelyn Bowden.
"The bride, an outstanding senior at Henderson State Teachers College, is vice president of her class and a member of the Philomathean society. Lt. Orr is a Graduate of Ouachita College where he was a member of the Red Shirt fraternity. Lt. Orr received his commission from the Fort Benning Infantry School in September.
"After the ceremony the couple left for Baltimore, Maryland, where Lt. Orr will be stationed at Fort Meade. For traveling the bride wore a natural colored Chesterfield over her wedding suit and her corsage was of orchids."
— Daily Siftings Herald, Page 3, Tuesday, Feb. 8, 1944, Arkadelphia, Arkansas
Herman C. Orr, 72, of Arkadelphia died Friday, Jan. 14, 1994, at St. Vincent's Infirmary in Little Rock.
He was born June 21, 1921, in Midway, the son of Columbus Carroll (Buddy) and Jenettie Nichols Orr.
He was a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University in 1943, a veteran of World War II, and was wounded in action, receiving the purple heart.
He was the owner of Dew-Orr Department Store and Home Center in Arkadelphia from 1946 until his retirement in 1984, a former member of the Arkadelphia Rotary Club, Lions Club and Jaycees for 20 years.
He served as assistant mayor of Arkadelphia and also served on the Arkadelphia City Board and water commission. He was elected to the Original Board of Directors [of the city of Arkadelphia] and was a member of the Arkadelphia Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death, Floy Dew Orr.
Survivors include his wife, Zelda Campbell Wesson Orr; one son, David Orr of Chicago, Ill.; one daughter, Betsy Fulmer of Arkadelphia; one stepson John H. Wesson of Nashville, Ark.; one sister Elsie Bartram of Houston, Texas; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were Monday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Murry-Ruggles Funeral Home Chapel with Harvey Arnold and Lynn Matheny officiating.
Interment will be in Rose Hill Cemetery (old section) under the direction of Murry-Ruggles Funeral Home.
Mrs. Floy Dew Orr, aged 57, of Arkadelphia, wife of Herman Orr, died Monday, May 5, at her home. She was born at Parkdale, a daugher of Mrs. Floy Pouncey Dew and the late H. L. Dew, and had lived most of her life in Clark County. She was co-owner of Dew-Orr Department Store and Dew-Orr Home Center. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Arkadelphia.
Survivors besides her husband include her mother, Mrs. H. L. Dew of Arkadelphia; one son, David Orr of Chicago, Ill; on daughter, Miss Betsy Orr of the home; and two sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Searles of Princeton, N.J. and Mrs. Jewel Henderson of Logan, Ohio.
Funeral services were at 3:30 pm.m Wednesday in the Murry-Ruggles Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Nathan Porter officiating.s
Pallbearers were Benny (Sonny) Hathaway, Charles Orr, Charles Garrett, Dr. Charles Clark, Ernest Holand, Dr. P.R. Anderson, and Larry Lineback.
Zelda Orr, age 85 of Nashville, Arkansas passed away on Sunday, December 31, 2017 in Texarkana, Texas. She was born on December 11, 1932 in Nashville, Arkansas the daughter of the late Ellis and Bertha Chesshir Campbell.
Mrs. Orr was a member of the Sunset Church of Christ. She was a volunteer for the Howard County Home Extension.
She was preceded in death by her first husband Dr. John Henry Wesson; her second husband Herman C. Orr; and a brother Howard E. Campbell.
Survivors include one son John H. Wesson and wife Lisa of Nashville, AR; one stepson David Orr of Chicago, IL; one stepdaughter Betsy Fulmer and husband Earl of Arkadelphia, AR; grandchildren Holly White and husband Andy of Conway, AR; Jake Wesson and wife Rachel of Conway, AR; Richard Morrison and wife Rachel of Van Buren, AR; Nicky Morrison and wife Amber of Arkadelphia, AR; Jonathan Morrison and wife Amy of Arkadelphia, AR; and nine great-grandchildren; one sister Linda Trapp and husband Jim of Texarkana, TX; a sister-in-law Ann Campbell of Russellville, AR; as well as four nephews.
Visitation will be 5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Tuesday, January 2, at Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 3, at Sunset Church of Christ, with David Williams and Jake Wesson officiating. Burial will follow in County Line Cemetery, under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
Orr Generation 4
David Carroll Orr
b. Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
living
+ Kevin Thomas Conaty, Nov. 4, 2015, Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii by Rev. Karen Joy Backinoff
living
David Orr studied at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri; the University of Chicago; Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, Arkansas; and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. David worked in the 1980s as an architect at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, and several other commercial and residential architecture firms in Chicago. David then worked for 19 years in Information Technology at J.P. Morgan Chase and its predecessor companies — followed by work as an Information Technology consultant to Allstate Insurance, State Farm Insurance, John Deere & Company, Gogo Inflight Services, and Peapod-Ahold/Delhaize.
Kevin Conaty studied at Butler College, Indianapolis, Indiana, and the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Conaty worked at Swedish Covenant Hospital in Chicago.
Elizabeth "Betsy" Orr
b. Nov. 5, 1958, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
d. Dec. 8, 2023, Prescott, Nevada County, Arkansas
Betsy and Earl Fulmer, Facebook cover photo, 2017
Earl and Betsy Orr Fulmer with her grandchildren, Destin, Florida, 2016.
Left to right, rear: Amy Morrison, Jonathan Morrison holding Rhett Morrison, Earl Fulmer, Betsy Orr Fulmer, Amber Morrison, Nick Morrison, Richard Morrison, and Rachel Morrison; front: Colton Morrison, Levi Morrison, Jase Morrison, William Morrison, and Samuel Morrison.
+ 1) Terry Morrison, Mar. 14, 1981, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas, div. 1992
living
- Richard Kyle Morrison
- Nicholas Orr Morrison
- Jonathan Morrison
+ 2) Earl Fulmer, July 31, 1993, Arkadelphia, Clark County, Arkansas
b. 11 September 1938
d. 17 June 2021, Arkansas
Betsy Orr Fulmer studied at Ouachita Baptist University and Henderson State University, both in Arkadelphia, Arkansas; the University of Arkansas at Little Rock; and Union Institute and University, Montpelier, Vermont. She taught at Arkadelphia Public Schools and at the Art Department of Henderson State University.
Orr Generation 5
Richard Kyle Morrison
living
+ Rachel Wells
living
- William Kyle Morrison
- Samuel Klein Morrison
Nicholas Orr Morrison
living
+ Amber Pickett
living
- Levi Cash Morrison
- Nicholas Jase Morrison
- Emma Kate Morrison
Jonathan Morrison
living
+ Amy Bledsoe
living
- Rhett Lewis Morrison
- Miley Elizabeth Morrison
Jonathan Morrison is the father of this son through a previous relationship:
- Colton Morrison
Orr Generation 2 cont.
James Madison Orr
b. May 16, 1877, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Oct. 12, 1944, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas; buried Neighours Cemetery, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
+ Ella Jane Nix, Feb. 1, 1903, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Jan. 20, 1882
d. Dec. 21, 1921
- Katie Mary Orr
- Mary Ethel Orr
- Callie Lucille Orr
- Earl Jack Orr
- Fannie Bell Orr
- Eugene Orr
- Janetta Evelyn Orr
Orr Generation 3
Katie Mary Orr
b. abt. 1904 (age 15, 1920 census; age 25, 1930 census)
Mary Ethel Orr
b. Feb. 20, 1907 (age 14, 1920 census; not included in household
in 1930 census)
d. Feb. 8, 1940
+ Houston Fowler
Callie Lucille Orr
b. June 13, 1908
d. Aug. 12, 1908, buried DeRoche Cemetery, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Earl Jack Orr
b. abt. May 1911 (Earl, age 8-7/12 in 1920 census;
Jack age 18, 1930 census)
Frances "Fannie" Bell Orr
b. Mar. 15, 1914, Arkansas
d. Nov. 3, 2000, Donaldson, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, buried Ouachita Cemetery, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
+ Dawson N. Berry
b. Aug. 12, 1912
d. Oct. 9, 1995
- Charles "Chuck" Berry, Oct. 26, 1932, b. Sept. 25, 1937; d. Jan. 4, 2011, Lubbock, Texas
Fannie Bell Berry Obituaries:
Daily Sifting Herald, Arkadelphia, Arkansas Nov. 6, 2000
Malvern Daily Record, Malvern, Arkansas, Nov. 7, 2000<
Eugene Orr
b. abt. February 1918 (age 2-11/12 in 1920 census;
age 13, 1930 census)
Janetta Evelyn Orr
b. Mar. 26, 1919, Midway, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Nov. 2, 2018, Malvern, Hot Sproing County, Arkansas
+ Hugh Phelan, Dec. 4, 1943
b. Mar. 30, 1918, Malvern, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
d. Feb. 11, 2012, Malvern, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
- Jim Phelan
- Dick Phelan
Janetta Evelyn Orr Phelan
Janetta Evelyn Orr Phelan, age 99, of Donaldson, passed away Friday, November 2, 2018 at the Encore Healthcare and Rehab. She was born March 26, 1919 in Midway to James Madison and Ella Jane Nix Orr.
Evelyn was a homemaker, a Christian and worshiped at Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church where she was a member for more than ninety years. She was also a member of the Malvern Chapter #501 Order of the Eastern Star.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband of 68 years: Hugh Edwin Phelan, three sisters, Ethel Fowler, Katie Mae Garrett, and Fannie Bell Berry, two brothers, Eugene and Jack Orr, daughter-in-law, Frances Bass Phelan and nephew Charles Berry.
She is survived by her sons: Jim Phelan and wife Paula of Little Rock, Dick Phelan and wife Anna of Benton, five grandchildren, Kristi Pierce and husband, Brad of Dallas, Texas, Tom Phelan and wife Wendy of Little Rock, Patrick Phelan and wife Neely of Little Rock, Todd Phelan and wife Sarah of Bentonville and Brad Phelan and wife, Michelle of Dallas, Texas, thirteen great-grandchildren, one niece Carolyn Berry Cagle of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, two nephews, Jerry Garrett of Roanoke, Virginia and Mickey Garrett of Malvern.
Visitation will be Friday, November 9, from 10am until 11am at the church.
Funeral Service will be Friday, November 9, at 11am at Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church with Brother Keith Rowton officiating. Burial at Ouachita Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Jim, Tom, Patrick, Dick, Todd, and Brad Phelan.
The family request that in Lieu of Flowers Memorials be made to Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church , P.O. Box 172 Donaldson, AR 71941.
The family gives special thanks to Dr. Ray Bollen and Jayne West and her wonderful staff at Malvern Nursing Home and Encore Healthcare and rehab for their many years of love and excellent care.
Hugh Edwin Phelan
Hugh Edwin Phelan, 93, of Donaldson, passed away on Saturday, February 11, 2012, at Hot Spring County Medical Center in Malvern. He was born March 30, 1918, to Thomas and Maude Phelan in Malvern. He was a Christian and worshipped at Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church where he was a member. He taught Sunday School and was active in the construction of the current church building.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Hazel McKenzie, two brothers, Calvin and Harold Phelan and daughter-in-law Frances E. Phelan.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Evelyn Orr Phelan, two sons Dr. Jim Phelan and wife Paula of Little Rock and Dr. Dick Phelan and wife Anna of Benton, five grandchildren Kristi Pierce and husband Brad of Dallas, TX, Dr. Tom Phelan and wife Wendy of Little Rock, Patrick Phelan and wife Neely of Little Rock, Dr. Todd Phelan and wife Sarah of Rogers and Brad Phelan of Washington D.C., and eleven great grandchildren. He is also survived by one brother Neil Phelan of Donaldson and two sisters Nettie Jackson of Magnet Cove and Ruth Young of Hot Springs Village.
He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a B-17 bombardier during World War II. He completed 25 combat missions over Germany and occupied France from January 1943 to October 1943 with the 306th Bombardment Group of the mighty Eighth Air Force. He was involved in the first daylight bombing raids over Germany in January 1943. For his heroic services during the war, he was awarded the Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. After completing his duty in the war he returned home to marry his sweetheart, Evelyn Orr, of Donaldson, on December 4, 1943.
He later served as the Arkansas Liaison Officer Coordinator for the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO, counseling Arkansas high school students who were interested in attending the Air Force Academy. In addition, he was elected Circuit Clerk of Hot Spring County before accepting an assignment at the United States Post Office as rural mail carrier at Donaldson where he served 30 years.
Services will be held at Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church on Wednesday, February 15, at 10:30 A.M. with visitation being held at the church, prior to the services, at 10:00 A.M. with Brothers Keith Rowton and Hollis McDermott officiating. Pallbearers will be Jim, Dick, Tom, Patrick, Todd and Brad Phelan.
Arrangements will be by Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern and the family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Donaldson Missionary Baptist Church. The burial will be at Ouachita Cemetery with full Military Honors.
Special Thanks to Dr. Ray Bollen and the wonderful staffs at Hot Spring County Medical Center and Malvern Nursing and Rehabilitation.
Orr Generation 2 cont.
Henry Washington Orr
b. Feb. 12, 1885, DeRoche, Hot Spring Coounty, Arkansas (age 36, 1920 census; age 47, 1930 census)
d. Jun. 2, 1940, DeRoche, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
+ Nettie Allen, July 4, 1909, Clark County, Arkansas
b. Jan. 11, 1892, Hot Spring County, Arkansas (age 40, 1930 census)
d. May 6, 1986, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas
- Vera Lee Orr
- Alta Louise Orr
- James Woodrow Orr
- Calvin Louis Orr
- Viola Orr
- John Houston Orr
Orr Generation 3
Vera Lee Orr
b. abt. 1911 (age 9, 1920 census; not in parents' household, 1930 census)
+ Hiram Bradfield
- Sally Bradfield
Alta Louise Orr
b. Sep. 6, 1913, Bismarck, Hot Spring County, Arkansas (age 16, 1930 census)
d. Feb. 3, 1996, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas
+ Roy Lee Herrin, Jan. 24, 1931, Clark County, Arkansas
b. May 22, 1911
d. July 1975, Bismarck, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
James Woodrow Orr
b. Dec. 8, 1915, Hot Spring Co AR
d. Aug. 6, 1979; buried DeRoche Cemetery, Hot Spring Co AR
+ Ruthell Allen, May 9, 1936
b. Sep. 16, 1914
d. Mar. 7, 1987; buried DeRoche Cemetery, Hot Spring Co AR
- James Franklin Orr
- Billy Carroll Orr
- Wayman Lewis Orr
Orr Generation 4
James Franklin Orr
b. Feb. 21, 1938
d. Nov. 25, 2010
+ Glenna L., Apr. 14, 1958
b. June 16, 1940
- Randy Orr
- Tony Orr
- Leadra Orr
James Franklin Orr and his wife Glenna owned and operated Orr's One Stop in Bismarck for many years and later Allen's TV and Appliance Center in Arkadelphia.
James Franklin Orr age 72 of Bismarck died Thursday, November 25, 2010 in Hot Springs. He was born February 21, 1938 the son of James Woodrow and Ruthell Allen Orr... James was an avid fisherman and golfer. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Billy Carrol Orr. The family would like to offer a special thanks to Dr. Tom Hollis Sr., Dr. Tom Hollis Jr. and Tammy Parker for their excellent care and friendship during James’ illness.
Survivors include his wife of 52 years Glenna Orr; two sons, Randy Orr and his fiancé Sandie Whisenant of Bismarck; Tony Orr and his wife Kelly of Little Rock; one daughter Leadra Orr of Hot Springs; one brother Wayman Orr and his wife Penne of Bismarck; five grandchildren, Amy Majors, Wesley Williams, Andrew Orr, Slade Yarbrough and Jillian Orr; two great grandchildren; Stone Majors and Rylee Orr.
Funeral services will be 10 AM Monday, November 29, in the Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Chapel with Bro. Chris Morrison officiating with burial in the DeRoche Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 PM Sunday at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home in Arkadelphia.
Pallbearers will be Randy Orr, Bruce Orr, Andrew Orr, Gentry Ford, Wesley Williams, Slade Yarbrough and Culley Majors. Honorary pallbearers are Wallis Callaway, Jackie Lea, Dr. Tom Hollis Sr., Dr. Tom Hollis Jr., and Tammy Parker.
Billy Carroll Orr
b. Aug. 21, 1942
d. July 2, 1963, buried DeRoche Cemetery, Hot Spring County, Arkansas
Wayman Lewis Orr
+ Penne B. Paulson
Orr Generation 3 cont.
Calvin Louis Orr
b. abt. 1922 (age 8, 1930 census)
d. as a Private in the U.S. Army, northern Africa, World War II
Viola Orr
b. abt. 1920 (not lised in 1920 census, age 10 in 1930 census)
lived in Dallas, Texas
+ Doyle Walker
John Houston Orr
b. Sept. 17, 1930
d. Jan. 8, 2008, Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas
Emma Jean Almond, daughter of Dewey and Helen Almond
b. Oct. 5, 1931
d. July 25, 2015
- John B. Orr
- Carolyn Orr, + Ashley
- Kelly Orr, + House
- Dewey Paul Orr
John H. Orr
John H. Orr age 77, of Hot Springs, died Tuesday, January 8, 2008 at St Joseph's Hospital. He was born September 17, 1930, the son of Henry and Nettie Allen Orr. He retired from the Rehabilitation Center of Hot Springs and was a former employee of Bismarck School as a Coach and teacher. He lived in the Bismarck Community for many years where he is known by many relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his son, John B. Orr.
Survivors include two daughters, Carolyn Ashley of Hot Springs and Kelly House of Point Cedar and one son, Paul Orr also of Hot Springs, three grandchildren, Angela Ashley and Andera Camp of Hot Springs and Mindy Ashley of Little Rock, one great grandson, Colton Sligh of Magnet Cove.
Funeral services will be 11 AM Saturday in the Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home Chapel in Arkadelphia with Brother Roy Remont officiating. Burial will be in the DeRoche Cemetery.
Emma Jean Orr
Emma Jean Orr, 83 of Hot Springs, passed on to the Lord July 25, 2015. She was born October 5, 1931 to Dewey and Helen Almond. Emma was a devoted mother and grandmother. She was preceded in death by a husband John H. Orr, a son, John B. Orr both of Bismarck and two brothers, Bruce and Willie Almond.
Survivors include two daughters, Carolyn Ashley of Hot Springs and Kelly House of Point Cedar; one son Dewey Paul Orr of Hot Springs, three grandchildren Angella Ashley, Melinda Allison and Andrea Ashley and one great grandson, Colton Sligh.
Services will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, July 28th at Ruggles-Wilcox Funeral Home in Arkadelphia. Visitation will be 6-8 PM Monday at the funeral home. Burial will be at DeRoche Cemetery.
Sources
- The Columbus Carroll Orr Family History, 1874-1978, 104 Years, by Ben Hathaway, North Little Rock, Arkansas
- Family Groups Records of Helen Hughes, 1998, Little Rock, Arkansas
- Autobiography, Herman Carroll Orr, 1991, Arkadelphia, Arkansas
- Notes from John Houston Orr, 1998, Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Notes from Carolyn Thompson, 1998, Houston, Texas
- The Heritage, Hot Spring County Arkansas Historical Association, Vol. XXVIII, 2001, p. 37
- "United States World War I Draft Registration Cards, 1917-1918," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K3P1-WQ1 : 13 March 2018), Carroll C Orr, 1917-1918; citing Hot Springs County, Arkansas, United States, NARA microfilm publication M1509 (Washington D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.); FHL microfilm 1,530,404.
- Email from Melinda Zingery Anderson, November 14, 2020