Dr. Curtis Jack Orr, Jr. (Jack) was born in Dover, Pennsylvania in July of 1941. Jack was a thoughtful speaker and minister, a compelling consultant, a devoted professor and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. A man of great scholarly competence, Jack earned his Ph.D. in Communication from Temple University and an M.A. in Philosophy from Northwestern University.
Jack dedicated his life to helping others grow—professionally, personally, and spiritually—through the power of effective communication and principled leadership. Jack spent the early part of his career in the role of minister at Baptist Church of the Evangel in Narberth, PA, and Second Baptist Church (Presently Silverside Church) of Wilmington, DE.
As a trusted consultant and facilitator, his guidance supported countless organizations. The founder and Director of C. J. Orr & Associates for over 44 years, Jack was a sought-after advisor to organizations across industries—from healthcare and finance to education and the arts. His client list was extensive and impressive, with the likes of Aetna, Merrill Lynch, DuPont, Wyeth-Ayerst, QVC, ING, the United States Postal Service, and the Chamber of Commerce of the United States. Jack also served as a consultant for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organizational Management for 25 years, guiding leadership development programs at prestigious universities including Notre Dame, Southern Methodist, San Jose State, and the University of Delaware.
As a university professor, Jack taught with passion and depth through courses in interpersonal communication, persuasion, creativity, process thinking, inspirational leadership, and organizational development. Jack held academic appointments at several institutions, including the University of Delaware and Hope College, before dedicating nearly forty years to West Chester University of Pennsylvania, where he ultimately retired as Professor Emeritus of Communication Studies. His aspirations of teaching young minds to think critically, lead effectively, and act with integrity would affect generations to come.
Jack’s work was grounded in a mission larger than business success; he believed in helping people develop not only economically, but also socially and spiritually. His life’s work was centered on empowering others to think differently about problems and possibilities, always aiming to uplift and inspire. Outside of work, Jack would enjoy summers at Bethany Beach with his family in a home made possible by his hard work. Beach outings, nights spent playing card games and fishing trips at the nearby pond are just a fraction of the fond memories he leaves behind for his children and grandchildren.
Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife, Rebecca Lynn Orr. Jack is survived by his children Christopher Jon Orr, husband of Carolyn June Orr née Snelling and Caitlyn Elizabeth Orr Martin, partner of Andrew Larkin. He was the paternal grandfather of Samantha June Orr Gabe, wife of Conner Gabe, and Alexander Christopher Orr. Jack was the maternal grandfather to Anneliese Janene Martin.
A memorial to honor the life of Jack will be held on June 21, 2025, at West Chester University, Phillips Memorial Building 664 S. High Street West Chester, PA 19383. The service will be held at 1:00 p.m.
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