Jaye Orlich

Jaye was born on July 4, 1925, to Salvatore and Grace Sollena in Highland Park, Michigan. She was the youngest and last surviving child of Salvatore and Grace, preceded in death by her parents, her brother Larry, and her sisters Margie and Santa.

Jaye often wrote about her magical memories of Highland Park and how proud she was to be born and raised there. She never forgot the wonderful, carefree years of her childhood, growing up in Highland Park and graduating from Highland Park High School.

In her younger years, Jaye worked as an Executive Assistant and traveled extensively with her cousin. Europe was her favorite destination.

She volunteered at Catholic Charities on weekends, and although she wasn’t scheduled to work one particular Saturday, she filled in for a friend. It was on that day she met Thomas Orlich.

Jaye and Tom met in August 1961 and were married on February 24, 1962.

They lived in Detroit, Michigan, where they welcomed their daughter Nancy in 1963, and son Tom in 1964. In November 1965, they moved to Westland, Michigan, and welcomed their son Joe in 1965.

Jaye was a stay-at-home mom until 1980, when she accepted a position at Our Lady of Providence School for Girls. She was assistant to Sister Theresa and absolutely loved her job.

Camping around Michigan was Jaye and Tom’s vacation of choice, especially enjoying the beaches of Lake Michigan. They eventually purchased property in Pentwater, Michigan, and upon retirement, built their dream home, where they lived for 23 years.

Jaye is survived by her three children: Nancy (Joe) Hart, Tom (Cathleen) Orlich, and Joe (Missy) Orlich. She was the beloved Nana to Marshall (Raven) Hart, Tom (Elyse) Orlich, Dustin Hart, Kate Orlich, Haley (Nick) Jenkins, Amelia Orlich, Cara Orlich, and Thomas Orlich.

Jaye (Mom/Nana) was caring, loving, and very funny. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her.

A visitation for Jaye will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152. A rosary will be prayed that evening at 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Jaye will lie in state at 10:00 AM at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 11441 Hubbard, Livonia, Michigan 48150, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Maryknoll Society, both causes close to Jaye’s heart.