David Gordon Orrell

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his adored wife of 71 years, Betty Horton Orrell.

David was born on the 10th of April, 1925 in Charlotte, NC to David James Orrell and Madaline Drummond Greaton.

David was a 1943 graduate of Hazelton High School in Hazelton, PA before going on to obtain his Bachelor’s degree from Penn State University and two Master’s degrees, one each from UNC Chapel Hill and the University of Miami.

David married Betty Horton on September 6, 1950 in Indian Trail, NC.

David had a successful 44-year career with United Way that began in Charlotte, NC, took him to Ft. Worth, TX and St. Petersburg, FL, and concluded with his retirement in Birmingham, AL. In addition to his dedicated employment, David also served as President of the Alabama State Conference and the Southeast Conference, served on the National Advisory Committee, and was a frequent instructor at the National Academy.

David and Betty were members for 54 years at Shades Valley Presbyterian Church where they both taught for several years as well. David was also a valued member of the Birmingham Rotary Club from 1965 to 2016, during which time he served as Program Chair, an orientation teacher for new members, and was a member of the Newcomen Society. Toward the end of his rotary service, he was awarded Rotarian Emeritus membership.

Those left to honor David’s memory include his daughters, April Blackmon (Charles) and Lisa Woodson; grandchildren, Brett Woodson (Jadyn), Philip Woodson, Ryan Blackmon (Shannon), and Andrew Maniscalco; and great-grandchildren, Avonlea Blackmon and Daniel Blackmon.

Per David’s wishes, there will be no public services.