Marsha Orr

Marsha Renae Orr, 70, of Canyon, TX, passed away peacefully on May 24, surrounded by love, laughter, and stories that could fill a hundred lifetimes, after facing leiomyosarcoma with strength and grace. Born on May 13, 1955, in Colorado City, TX, and spending her childhood and youth in Snyder, TX, Marsha lived each day with a spark that could light up a room. Mischievous from the start and generous to the core, she had a knack for making everyone feel like the most important person in the world—usually while telling a funny story, handing you a beer, or dragging you on a new adventure. Marsha lived life fully and fearlessly—from the classroom to the dance floor. A proud veteran, she served in the Airforce with honor before dedicating her life to education as a science teacher, coach, administrator, and in recent years, Director of Education at Creek House Honey Farm. She worked in Elgin, Killeen, Austin, and the Denver, CO, area where she had a particularly special time at Monarch K-8. Her impact on generations of students and colleagues is immeasurable, and her belief in lifting others up was at the core of everything she did. Marsha treasured our democracy and actively participated in campaigns, rallies, marches and lively discussions around protecting and advancing the rights of all people. A proud alumna of The University of Texas, Marsha bled burnt orange. She was an unapologetic Longhorn fan, known for sporting UT gear year-round and shouting "Hook 'em Horns!" and singing "The Eyes of Texas." Marsha's greatest joy was her family. She adored Amy and Griffin with a fierce, joyful devotion—they were the absolute center of her universe. Her love also extended to a lively menagerie, including Windy the longhorn, Beto the mini donkey, and a parade of four-legged friends who kept life interesting. Whether hosting legendary parties, offering a shoulder in hard times, or being the first to laugh at a good (or bad) joke, Marsha brought joy wherever she went. Marsha is survived by her loving partner of nearly 30 years, Amy Claborn; cherished son, Griffin Orr-Claborn; sister Becky Lofton and husband Larry, sister Pam Nitsch and husband Charles, numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and an enormous circle of friends and chosen family who adored her endlessly. The world is a little less bright without her big laugh and even bigger heart. She was preceded in death by her parents, Elnora Lewis Curtis and Alvin Orr. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you raise a glass, tell a great story, and do something unexpectedly kind—just as Marsha would have. A celebration of Marsha's life will be scheduled soon. The date and venue will be announced. All will be welcome to come share a memory, a laugh, and a dance in honor of the one who taught us all how to live out loud.