Ronald L. Orr

Ronald L. Orr, age 84, of Pittsfield, IL passed away on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at his home.  He was born on August 6, 1937 in Jacksonville, IL to Charles and Eileen Merriman Orr.  He married Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Foiles on October 18, 1959 at the Glasgow Baptist Church in Glasgow, IL, and she survives.

Ronald attended Tollgate Grade School and always reminded everyone he walked to school every day.  He graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1955 and went on to be a Golden Glove boxer and was coached by Walt Lowry.  He was a longtime grain and livestock farmer and drove a truck for Stilwell Trucking and Dick Coultas Trucking.  While driving for Stilwell’s, he drove the Alton meat run delivering to grocery stores along the way and his stop in Winchester is where he met the love of his life, Betty.  He served one term as the Detroit Township Road Commissioner.  He then farmed the family farm and his son, Tim, joined when he was old enough.  They also owned Blue Creek Timber.  In early years, Ron and Betty enjoyed square dancing and were members of the Pike Promenaders. He was also a member of the Detroit  United Methodist Church and served as Detroit Township Trustee for over 50 years.  He was also a member of the Blue River Cemetery Board and served as secretary, and a member of the Pike County Farm Bureau.  Ron loved his family and was a big animal lover.  He was also kind, giving, and would give the shirt off his back.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Betty; son, Tim and wife Lori Orr of rural Pittsfield, IL; two daughters, Vicki Orr of rural Pittsfield and Mary and husband Earl Pursley of rural Pittsfield, IL; four grandchildren, Wayne Neff, Jacob and wife Allison Pursley, Immanuel and wife Ashley Pursley, and Emily Pursley; and great granddaughter, Lorelai Pursley.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Eileen Orr; stepfather, Raymond Morris; and in-laws, Lawrence and Leota Foiles.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Blue River Cemetery near Detroit.  Memorials are suggested to be made to Winchester United Methodist Church Alzheimer’s Support Group or Blue River Cemetery.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

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