Virginia Helm Orr

Virginia Helm Orr passed away Thursday October 7, 2010 three days before her 90th birthday at Horizon Bay in Graham. She lived a long, full, well-loved life and left this world surrounded by her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 on Sunday, October 10, 2010 at the First Presbyterian Church in Graham, following a graveside service at Pioneer Cemetery for her family members. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Morrison Funeral Home.

Virginia was born in Newcastle, Texas on October 10, 1920 to Rufus and Jeannette Helm. She graduated from Texas Women's College in 1942 with a degree in Library Science. She married Dan Orr in 1942 in Newcastle.
Virginia accompanied her husband as he served in the Air Force for 20 years. They lived in and traveled to many places around the United States and the world. They moved back to Graham following Dan's retirement in 1961.
Virginia was a librarian for the Graham elementary and junior high schools for almost 20 years. She was instrumental in starting the elementary school libraries in Graham. Almost a full generation of Graham school children listened to her read Old Yeller to them as they passed through third grade. She particularly enjoyed the camaraderie of her co-workers at the junior high.
After her retirement from the Graham schools in 1982 she was an active volunteer with Meals on Wheels and the Graham Hospital Auxiliary. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and a resident of Horizon Bay.

Survivors include her husband, Col. Daniel B. Orr (USAF, ret.) of Graham, her children: Daniel B. Orr Jr. of Laughlin, NV, Lynn Nees and husband Gordon of Graham, Lisa Priddy and husband Curtis of Fort Worth, and David Orr and wife Renee of Austin; eleven grandchildren: Ginger Nees Birk, Gordon "Chip" Nees, Trenton Bonner, Darik Bonner, Daisye Orr, Dylan Orr, Michael Priddy, Ginnie Priddy Vierra, Mary Liz Priddy, Daniel Orr, and Erin Orr; and one great-grandson: Jagger Nees. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Marjorie "Sissy" Lindley of Norman, Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Diana Bonner, granddaughter, Danielle Bonner, brothers, J. Mac Helm, Harvey "Bud" Helm and Rufus Helm.

Virginia Orr was much loved by all who knew her. She was a beautiful, graceful lady who set an example of unconditional love for her family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels of Graham, the Graham Hospital Auxiliary, or the charity of your choice.