No matter how many individuals appear in the pages of each edition of Keys Weekly, there are always so many more of our community members who deserve to be recognized. In an effort to shine a spotlight on more of the incredible individuals who live and work in these islands, Keys Weekly is proud to spotlight our Neighbor of the Week feature, dedicated to celebrating a community member with each issue.
Our neighbor of the week is Jane Orr, a long-time employee turned volunteer at Key Largo School. Twice nominated in the top three for the Keys Weekly Best of Upper Keys people’s choice awards, Orr started volunteering at KLS when her now grown son was in kindergarten. A couple years later, she joined the staff as a paraprofessional, working from 1992 until her retirement at the end of the 2017 school year. She returned as a volunteer at the start of the next school year in August. She currently works in a first grade classroom with Ms. Amy Arevalo and assists Ms. Pam Caputo with her STEAM classes.
How long have you lived in the Keys? While I was born in Atlanta, my parents moved to Miami when I was 7 and we started exploring the Florida Keys. I’ve lived in Key Largo full time for 48 years.
What drew you to the Keys? Developed a love for the Keys while growing up and my parents and siblings all moved here. I was the last to follow suit. All my family has moved away but KLS keeps me here.
Weirdest experience you’ve had in the Keys? Fantasy Fest years ago. Once was enough. There were things I saw that couldn’t be unseen. While it was fun, I’ve been there, done that.
What do you enjoy most about your work? Working with the kids and helping the teachers. Seeing the kids’ smiles and getting their hugs.
What led you to be in the occupation you’re in? Having had two children. I had previously worked at a chiropractic center, in accounting and at a dialysis center, but once my son started school, I wanted to volunteer.
If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be? My mom and dad. Dad died when I was only 25 and there are so many things I would like to ask them. I’d love to have dinner with Pope Leo.
If you had a superpower, what would it be? The power to transport to places. I would love to visit more often with my sister, children and grandchildren.
Favorite food? Fish of any kind. I love seafood but fish especially, pan-seared or cooked in my air fryer.
Favorite movie? I’m not a big movie goer but I like the “Top Gun” movies. This might have to do with my son-in-law flying those planes.
Favorite book? I’m in a book club so I’ve read a lot, but “Charlotte’s Story” is my favorite. I explored Elliot Key as a kid and remember the Keys back in the day as described in the book.
What are your hobbies? I like crafting and decoupage. I’d like to get into shelling more.
Is there a skill/talent you want to master? I’d love to get into photo editing and restoration.
What are you most proud of as you look back on your life this far? My kids. Both are engineers and are doing well as parents.
Do you have any regrets? Not traveling more. I passed on a trip to Rome and Vatican City with my daughter years ago. They got to see the Pope; it would have been Pope John Paul II or Pope Francis.
What is the biggest daily challenge you face? Decluttering my house.
Know someone who would be a good Neighbor of the Week? Email jim@keysweekly.com.
