Robert Wayne Orr

Wayne was born on August 3, 1932, in Amarillo, TX, to the late Robert Dee Orr and Emma Saunders Orr. Wayne earned a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from the University of Texas and enjoyed a distinguished career in the civil service working for the Department of Defense.

Wayne married the love of his life, the late Esther Mata Orr, in 1953. Together, they raised five children and enjoyed a life full of adventure and love. Wayne was Esther's devoted husband and dance partner for over 63 years.

Wayne is survived by his daughter Terry Lewis and her children, Ron, Debra and Michael; daughter Delia Gartside and her children, Kirk, Adam and Noelle; son Adam Martinez and his husband Jim; son Gene Orr, his wife Laurie and their children, Karen, Kurtis and Samantha; daughter Kimberlie Orr; brothers James ”Bud” Orr (May) and Dale Orr (Charlotte); sister Linda Wells; and eight great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Wayne was predeceased by his wife, Esther Mata Orr; his brothers, Clifford Orr and David Orr; and his sisters, Margie Branton and Ruth Swann.

Although Uncle Wayne, as many called him, loved to joke around, deep down, he was the nicest guy ever, always ready to help a relative or friend. Everyone remembered him once they met him, whether in the halls of the Pentagon, where he worked, or in the wilderness of Africa or Australia, two of the many places he and Esther visited. He knew how to leave an impression! Besides being a charmer, he also lived for his writing and authored many adventure-packed novels and short stories. Wayne will be remembered as a beacon of kindness, humor and love. He will forever reside in our hearts.

A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, July 23 from 4PM to 8PM at Demaine Funeral Home, 520 S. Washington St., Alexandria VA.

The funeral is scheduled for Thursday, July 24 at 10AM at Mt. Comfort Cemetery, Alexandria, VA, with a reception to follow at Kimberlie's home. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Wayne's life.

In lieu of flowers, give someone a hug or donate to the Dysphagia Outreach Project (dysphagiaoutreach.org) in his name.