Don Earl Orick

Don Earl Orick, a beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed from this life on April 14, 2024, at the age of 88. Born in Stanford on July 16, 1935, to the late Earl (Arks) and Beatrice Eubanks Orick, Don enriched the lives of many through his kindhearted nature and unwavering sense of duty.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Army, demonstrating courage and dedication during his enlistment. Following his military service, he embarked on a remarkable career with the USPS as a mail carrier for over 30 years, bringing joy and reliability to countless households. 

In his community, he was a devoted member of Commissary Church of Christ. Don's passion for gardening was evident to all. Each year, he lovingly tended to his bountiful garden, generously sharing its vegetables with those throughout the community. His prowess in making muscadine and grape jelly became legendary, symbolizing his selfless spirit and boundless generosity as he gave it all to others.

A man of diverse interests, Don found solace in hunting, fishing, playing the guitar, and recounting tales with his army comrades. In his older years, he would attend the hunting trips and cook breakfast for the hunters to enjoy after the morning hunt. His love for the outdoors extended to watching St. Louis Cardinals games, cementing his allegiance to his favorite team.

On January 21, 1961, he sealed his lifelong commitment to love and cherish his bride, Terry Cline, creating a lasting union filled with devotion and love. Don's legacy lives on through his daughter, Shelly (Craig) Tarry; granddaughter, Jessica (Stephen) Redden; grandson, Jacob (Elizabeth) Tarry; great grandchildren, Camille Joiner, Beckett, Carver, and Webb Redden, and Georgia Tarry; nephews, Steve Orick, Ron Orick, Scott Roberts, Kelly Dellerman, and Cody Orick; niece, Madelyn Orick; brother, Lemuel E. Orick; best friend, Danny Ryan; and gardening buddy, Leon Adams. Don was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Terry Kay Orick; siblings, Eunice (Orville) Kersey, Herman (Nell) Orick, Grace (Joe) Dellerman, Fred (Mary) Orick, Laura (Grady) Roberts, Jan (Lamar) Carson, and infant Gertie Fay Orick; nephews, Gary Don Kersey and Wes Orick; and niece, Belinda Orick Burns.

In celebration of his rich life, a visitation will be Thursday, April 18, 2024, at Warren's Chapel United Methodist Church from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. A graveside service with military honors will begin at Warren's Chapel Cemetery at 1:00 pm with Evan Smith and Art Smith officiating.

Don Earl Orick's unwavering spirit, loving heart, and selfless nature will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a beacon of light and love for generations to come.