John Wilford Orr

He was born on September 22, 1894, and after completing his education at Kimberley Boy's High School, he joined the Kimberley branch of John Orr's in 1913. Like his father he was associated with Garlick's Ltd., of Capetown in his early business career. In 1916, he joined the armed services and saw service with the S.A.S.C. mechanical transport in German East Africa. After the war he went to England and before returning in 1922, he spent three months with the John Orr buying office in London.

Shortly after returning he married Lou Erlank in November 1922. He then managed the Kimberley business and was appointed secretary of John Orr Ltd., which was formed in 1920 to consolidate his father's diverse business interests.

The original Kimberley business was destroyed by fire in 1930. Mr. John Orr and Mr. Wilford decided to build a new store in the city. The new building had the widest frontage of any store in the country at that time.

After John Orr died in Ireland in 1932, Mr. Wilford Orr was appointed chairman and managing director of John Orr Ltd., the parent company of the John Orr organization. He served several years as a Councillor. Also served as Mayor of Kimberely in 1947.

The Orrs travelled extensively and also helped to educate young people. Wilfred died of a heart attack on board ship in Lourenco Marques on May 20, 1967 at the age of 72. They had no children.