Robertson Funeral & Cremation Service
Jim was born in Roanoke, Virginia to Edward Rast Orrell and Louise Woodson Orrell. He loved his childhood in the "Star City of the South" where he and his friends would seek out giant puddles to play in when it rained, and hike around Mill Mountain when the weather was nice. A graduate of Jefferson High School and Roanoke College, he and his wife moved to Charlotte in 1972 and he started his own insurance agency in 1978.
Jim loved to meet people, always asking where you were from and where you went to school. He was always looking for and finding ways to connect with anyone who crossed his path. He had a great sense of humor and a knack for recognizing a person's strengths to help them succeed. This was reflected in the way he raised his kids, coached little league, and took care of his customers. He coached all three of his kids in softball, basketball, and football, and in later years when he wasn't coaching, he never missed a game or event. He loved his wife Carolyn, their three kids, his grandchildren, and he is loved by them.
Jim was a big Panthers fan and had season tickets for the "original" Hornets also. He loved playing golf and spending time at the beach. He deeply missed his beloved golden retriever, Cromwell, and his family takes solace in knowing they have been reunited.
Jim is survived by his wife, Carolyn Orrell, their children Steve Orrell, Susan Orrell, and Kimberly Freeman. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Dylan Orrell, Alec Orrell, Zechoriah Freeman, Ian Orrell, Anna Orrell, and Nathan Grasty. He is greatly missed by all.
Jim passed away on October 24, 2022
The service for Jim will be held at Sharon Presbyterian Church (5201 Sharon Rd. Charlotte, NC 28210) at 11am on Saturday, November 19th.
LINKS
The Charlotte Observer
http://www.charlotteobserver.com
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