Thomas Orr

Tom Orr passed away on Monday, September 9th from a terminal illness. He was born on June 28, 1955 to the Reverend Thomas Orr Jr. and Verna (Olmstead) Orr in Glens Falls, NY. An accomplished musician, Tom played piano and organ for many years in his father’s churches. He also enjoyed playing the tenor recorder and singing with the Syracuse Chorale. Tom loved helping people, and worked at the Syracuse Developmental Center and group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities. He provided respite care for several people and worked at a senior citizens' assisted living center before becoming a Centro bus driver. He also loved to travel, and was a Greyhound bus driver for several years . One of his favorite things to do was to bring one or two of his children on the bus with him when it was a relatively short trip. He genuinely loved children, and spent the last years of his life volunteering as a Foster Grandparent in the Syracuse City School District. Tom is survived by his wife of forty years, Ardean (Russo) Orr; children Michael, Sarah, Dannah, Joshua, Deborah, Bethany, Rylah, Joel; and five grandchildren. He also has a brother: David Orr of Schenectady, NY: a sister: Jeanette (Orr) Hamje of Portland, OR ; and several cousins, nephews and nieces. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 28 at Hope Presbyterian Church, 4962 West Seneca Turnpike, beginning at 1 P.M, A meal will be served immediately following in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Peace, Inc. at https://peace.charityproud.org/Donate