Cheryl Anne Orr

Devoted mother, loving wife, wonderful daughter, compassionate sister, and caring friend, Cheryl Anne Dodson Orr, passed away gracefully on April 10, 2020, in her home with her family by her side. Cheryl was born November 15, 1957, to Mrs. LaVerne and the late Mr. Richard F. Dodson in Cleveland, Ohio. Cheryl was primarily raised by her mother LaVerne and her late stepfather Mr. James R. Williams. Cheryl was the eldest of five girls, affectionately known as the Dodson sisters. Cheryl was a natural leader who demonstrated kindness, patience, compassion, humility, and servitude at a young age. A studious child, Cheryl graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in Cleveland, Ohio in 1975. She attended Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, and in 1980, she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy. In June of 1998, she completed the Certificate Program in Healthcare Management at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Cheryl met her college sweetheart, William “Bill” Orr, in 1975 and they married on August 8, 1981. Together, they began a journey that took them around the world. Becoming an Air Force spouse afforded her unique opportunities that included over a dozen moves to places like Las Vegas, Nevada, San Francisco, California, and Misawa, Japan. To this union, two sons were born, Brian and Michael. No matter where she was, she made her family and others feel welcome. She was known for her extraordinary hosting abilities. A prospective guest once said, “I’m so glad to be invited; Cheryl’s hosting skills are legendary!” On top of her motherly and hosting duties, Cheryl was also an outstanding pharmacist who felt her occupation was more than a job, it was a calling. Cheryl fiercely advocated for her customers in so many ways, fighting for the care they needed and deserved. She was a mentor to young pharmacists and technicians, showing them the extra mile, or inch can make a real difference for real people. She did not shy from adversity or leadership. She served as President of the Parent-Teacher Association, President of the Cambryar Homeowner’s Association, and a leader in the Boy Scouts of America Troops 1145 and 195 for both of her sons. She was a long-time advocate of social justice, working tirelessly with the Alfred Street Baptist Church Social Justice Ministry, and serving as a Fairfax County Election official.

Cheryl Anne Orr

November 15, 1957 - April 10, 2020