William "Bill" Milton Orr, age 86, of Hampton, Georgia, passed away on April 3, 2018. Bill was born in Lathemtown, Georgia on April 14, 1931. He graduated from Canton High School in 1948, where he met his future wife, Bobby Jane Bagwell. Bill served in the Army from 1952 - 1954 as an instructor for the supply school at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. He and Bobby married in December of 1954.
Bill and Bobby moved to Athens where he completed his education at the University of Georgia, graduating in 1957. They moved to Hampton, Georgia where he worked 36 years in the Henry County School system. Bill taught science and PE, coached football, basketball, and baseball at Hampton Elementary for 12 years, followed by another 24 years in the county office, eventually rising to Deputy Superintendent of Schools. During his time with the schools he also coached baseball and conducted summer programs for the Recreation Department. He was inducted into the inaugural class of the Henry County Recreation Department Hall of Fame. Bill also served as a City Councilman for the City of Hampton.
Bill had many hobbies throughout his life including competitive pistol shooting, wood working, and flying. In his 70s he even began riding a recumbent bicycle for miles each day. After retirement Bill enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his three beloved grandchildren, Stuart, Caroline and Erin.
Bill is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bobby Jane. His two daughters, Jane (Edward) Erkes of Atlanta, and Lisa Arnold of Locust Grove. Grandson Stuart (Alisa) Erkes and granddaughters Caroline Erkes and Erin (Jonathan) Alley. Bill is survived by two great-granddaughters, Lora Lei and Lila Alley, as well . He is also survived by his brother, Charles (Donna) Orr and many nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Mae Orr, brother, Sidney Orr, and sisters, Betty Tribble and Wansley Bramblett.
Visitation will be Friday, April 6 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Darby Funeral Home, Canton, GA. Funeral service will be on Saturday, April 7 at 2:00 p.m. at Darby Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Cherokee Memorial Park, Canton, GA.
Bill lived in Hampton, GA for over 60 years. He touched the lives of many students and their families. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held in Hampton on Saturday, April 14 which would have been his 87th birthday. The service will be held at Hampton Elementary Charter School in the cafeteria at 2:00 p.m.
The caring staff of Darby Funeral Home is honored to serve the Orr family.