Adrene Diane McCaskill Orr

“Say not in grief that she is no more but say in thankfulness and celebration that she once was. Our lives change from day to day, but the love and memory of you, shall live evermore.” Ms. Adrene Diane McCaskill made her mark in this world on November 19, 1946 in Charlotte, NC. For 77 years, Ms. Adrene brought life, love, and light to all whom she encountered until the afternoon of June 4, 2024, when God called her to eternal life and decided her light had luminated its brightest. Adrene was most proud to be a McCaskill and a big sister. Adrene was the oldest daughter of the late Calvin McCaskill and the late Sarah McCaskill of Charlotte. Big sister to Dalphne, Adrene was raised in a Christian home and supportive Charlotte community where she learned how to fully rely on her faith, nurture the love of family, embrace the pursuit of education, and share positive life lessons that would easily provoke a smile or laugh. Adrene was educated in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and she was a proud graduate of West Charlotte Senior High School, Class of 1964. Adrene matriculated to Livingstone College in Salisbury, NC, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education. With a desire for a new experience, Adrene accepted a teaching position at Sharpe Health School in Washington, DC. Adrene taught in DC for a significant period of time and she enjoyed the opportunity to explore her independence and a new city. After the birth of her pride and glory, her one and only child Tiffany, Adrene returned to her Charlotte roots so that her new family could experience the Christian love and support that reared her. Adrene joined the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system as an elementary school teacher where she instilled in her students to believe, achieve, and succeed. As an amazing listener, story teller, and friend, being an educator was second nature to her. Adrene was committed to the course of educating youth until her retirement from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system. Later in life Adrene was married to Leon Orr. Adrene’s greatest joy in life was being a mother to Tiffany and a grandmother to twin grandsons Vellon and McCaskill. Adrene planted and nourished a strong belief of aspiration and achievement in her Tiffany. Tiffany was her mini-me, her little Adrene, and Tiffany emulated everything good and positive about Adrene. These two shared an unbreakable bond and Tiffany demonstrated impeccable devotion to her mother’s care and well-being for the duration of Adrene’s illness. To best sum this close mom and daughter relationship, “She is still everywhere with me. She is the air I breathe; she occupies my every thought and fills each moment of my life. I carry her within myself and will never free myself from our eternal bond.” Adrene’s grandsons, Vellon and McCaskill were blessed to have their biggest cheerleader and advocate in their lives and in their home. The boys were known to sit and lay with Adrene, updating her on their progress and troubles, always knowing she would support them and back them up against their parents. “Love as powerful as your grandmother’s leaves its own mark. To have been loved so deeply will provide protection forever.” Vee and Mac are forever protected because of Adrene. Adrene’s godchildren doted over her with motherly love and affection. The visits, gifts, and quality time were so meaningful to Adrene and she treasured these special relationships. “A great soul never leaves. It brings us together again and again." Sabrina, Ashley, Leonard, Sean, Moncrief, Ray, and Naquay, please know that her heart was full because of you. Adrene developed long lasting authentic bonds with very special people who over the years became family. She was as resourceful as she was pure in heart. Adrene was a compassionate and magnetic soul, loved and adored by many, near and far. Her home and dinner table were consistently open and catered for family and friendly fellowship. She was always memorable, leaving an impression with her quick wit and compelling spirit of love, warmth, and nurture. Adrene always had a positive word for everyone. "There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart." Adrene has lived a life where she will always be in the heart of her loved ones. Adrene leaves to cherish: one devoted daughter, Tiffany McCaskill Rivers; two adoring grandsons, Vellon Rivers and McCaskill Rivers; two goddaughters, Sabrina Richardson, Ashley Brown (Jay); five godsons, Leonard Glenn, Moncrief Michael (Johnny Mae), Sean Baker (Robin), Ray James (Angelique), Naquay Ellis (Jessica) ; god sister, Wendy Williams; Dearest friends, Selena Berry (special cousin who recently transitioned), Janice Hoover, Allie Grant, Lois Vaughters, Harriet Davis, Sallie Mayfield, Lynette Stinson, Cathy Jones, Linda Hoover-McClain, Faye Anthony, Elanor Ervin, Gloria Caldwell, Howard West, Theron Hunter, Deloris Swann (cousin), Cynthia Amiger (cousin), Valerie Culbreth (cousin), Venita Jassey (cousin), and a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends. Adrene was blessed with an amazing circle of supporting family and friends who provided various levels of care. Our family is forever grateful for Reverend Dr. Michael A. Robinson and The Fellowship Place Church Family. We have truly been blessed by your acts of kindness and love expressed over the years. We want to acknowledge the West Charlotte Senior High School Class of 1964 and the Livingstone Class of 1970 for your continuous outpouring of love and support. Tiffany, Vellon, and McCaskill would like to recognize Adrene’s support team that provided extraordinary comfort and care during her time of need: Theron Hunter, William Griffin, Tamika Ali, Venita Jassey, Valerie Culbreth, Brenda McCaskill, Tawana Lewis, Harriet Davis, Sallie Mayfield, Faye Anthony, Hospice & Palliative Care of Charlotte, and Peak Resources Charlotte. A special Thank you to the Nursing Supervisors Ms. Jessica and Ms. Danielle for the extra love and care shown to our family.

Adrene Diane McCaskill Orr

November 19, 1946 - June 4, 2024