Earl Franklin Orr

Earl Franklin Orr, age 81, of Smithfield, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, August 18th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Earl was born April 10th, 1944, in the Panama Canal Zone to Earl Campbell Orr and Margaret Finn Orr. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mary Orr Armistead, and brother John Orr. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Shirley Klingenfus Orr, sons David Orr (Erin) and Patrick Orr (Jodi), four grandchildren (Campbell, Declan, Nora, and Ellis), as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. Earl was a graduate of Tri-State College in Indiana and Colorado State University and worked for Central Soya and CoBank where he made many lifelong friends. Upon his retirement from CoBank, Earl worked for the National Livestock Producers Association and co-owned and operated the Schoolhouse Antique Mall in Ballardsville, Ky. Earl was a longtime volunteer for SCORE and helped with the Oldham County Historical Society’s Oral History project by interviewing veterans and long-time local residents. Earl found great joy in fishing, whether it was deep-sea fishing off the coast of Panama, in Tampa Bay, or teaching his grandchildren to fish in his farm ponds. He also had a deep love of travel and exploring new places and making memories with friends and family.

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, August 24th at Pewee Valley Presbyterian Church, with a celebration of life beginning at 5:00 pm to honor and commemorate his remarkable life.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Hosparus for all their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hosparus Health, 6200 Dutchman’s Lane, Louisville, KY 40205.