Obituary of Samuel B. Orr

Samuel B. Orr 88, one of the last surviving members of the US Army Air Corps' "Silent Wings" glider squadron, has unfurled his wings. On November 4, 2008, he took off on his final flight, soaring through the heavens. His life was one of service to his country, his community and his family. As a glider pilot in the 59th squadron-61st Carrier group, he flew men and munitions across enemy lines into France during WWII. He spent the next 35 years serving the Colorado community as a bus driver for Continental Trailways. Along the way he fathered and raised two sons, Charles and Thomas, which led to six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. He devoted himself completely to caring for his wife of 57 years, Lucille, for the last nine years of her life when she was stricken with a serious illness. At the age of 81, Sam once again found love and companionship and married Beverley Emerson Orr in 2002. His last several years were very active. He hiked with friends in the mountains of Tucson, traveled extensively with Beverly and was active with the 'senior' community. He had a wonderful sense of humor, always seeing the good in things and people. Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille and grandson, Donald. He is survived by his loving wife, Beverley and sons, Thomas (Marsha) and Charles (Sherry); grandchildren, Marie, Christa, Robbie, Michelle, Michael and Tiffany and all of their extended families. In lieu of flowers, please send a contribution to the Tucson Community Food Bank.