Merilyn Anderson-Smith Orendorff's Obituary
Merilyn Anderson–Smith Orendorff
Merilyn was born July 11, 1950, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, daughter of Mervyn Anderson-Smith and Rosemary Schaffer Anderson-Smith. She is survived by her devoted son Jason Orendorff (Olivia) and daughter Marianne Orendorff Winstead (Jason) and her grandchildren James, Abby, Teddy and Meg. She is also survived by her sisters Patricia Freire, Marsha Nall, Carolyn Theobald and Glynnis Anderson-Smith and her twin brother Mervyn Anderson-Smith, Jr.
A graduate of White Station High School and the University of Memphis, Merilyn taught history at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School for 24 years. At school she was well known for her baking and the faculty was always excited when an “Orendorff cake” appeared in the faculty lounge. In retirement Merilyn enjoyed volunteering as a docent at Davies Manor Historic Site where she loved guiding tours and talking about history and being part of the quilting club that meets there. An avid reader, she was always surrounded by stacks of novels which she could talk about in great detail. Merilyn took great pleasure in gardening and feeding the birds (all of which she could identify) as well as the occasional rabbit. But her real passion was dogs and she always had at least one. Her most recent companion was Winnie, the Boston terrier, who brought her great joy during the last few years.
Merilyn will be remembered by family and friends and former students for her kindness, her sweetness and her generosity.
Services will be at Memorial Park Funeral Home on March 5 with visitation at 10:00 AM and a service at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local Humane Society or St. Joseph’s Indian School.
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