After having enjoyed a delightful Christmas, surrounded by his loving wife, children and grandchildren, Lon Greer Orr, 81, passed away at his home in Carthage on Wednesday, December 30th.
Lon was born on April 3rd, 1934, in Dixon, MO. He attended the University of Missouri, Columbia, where he studied agriculture and was a member of Beta Theta Pi.
A Mason, Lon served as Master of the Masonic Lodge in La Russell and as a member of the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine in Springfield. From 1979-1993, he was the Executive Secretary of the Scottish Rite, Valley of Joplin.
In 1973, he was inducted into that rare Masonic brotherhood referred to as “the 5%,” becoming the youngest person in Missouri conferred with the 33rd Degree by the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The 33rd Degree cannot be gained through study; it is awarded only for exemplary service. Having attained that honor at such a young age speaks volumes of the measure of the man Lon Orr was. He had the kind of personality that touched people.
His other love was the theatre and gave several memorable performances as a member of the Joplin Little Theatre.
Lon is survived by his loving wife, Lyla, his children, Julie Claire Lane (Dennis), Chesterfield, MO, Lon Greer Orr II (Connie), Tulsa, OK, Christopher John Tillman Orr, Sarcoxie, Amy Joan Michel (Jeff), Des Moines, Lisa Humble (Grant), Kansas City, and Amy Rohlman, Springfield. Lon also leaves behind four grandchildren, Savannah Lynn Weber, Spencer John Tillman Orr, Chad Wade Melton and Mary Claire Lane.
Visitation will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Tuesday January 5, at Knell Mortuary. The funeral will be 10:00 am, Wednesday January 6, at Grace Episcopal Church. A private burial will follow.
You pass this way but once. Any good you can do, any kindness for any individual, do it now. Do not defer or neglect or you will not pass this way again.
Memorial gifts are suggested to the Grace Episcopal Church or the Scottish Rites Foundation in care of Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com.
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