Orlando Steward Crank

Mr. Orlando Steward Crank, in his season of life, was born May 23, 1965, to Mr. James M. Crank and Mrs. Gladys M. Crank.  He was the fifth of nine children: six girls and three boys. 

He departed this life on August 21, 2023, at Durham Regional Hospital, surrounded by his loving sisters.

As a child, Orlando became an avid sports enthusiast that continued throughout his entire life.  It was always said that he could play an awesome basketball game and had missed his calling in the NBA.  He also loved football as well, and his favorite team was the Pittsburgh Steelers.  Orlando could give you stats on any professional and college team, including the coaches and players. 

Because he was a visionary, Orlando traveled from the East to the West Coast starting at an early age.  During his professions in early life, he was a plumber and a roofer by trade.  Later in life, Orlando established his career in business ownership. Orlando was always thinking outside the box, having a plethora of incredible ideas.  You would be left in awe by the things one could glean from his mind.  

Orlando answered to many names given to him by his family, but when he became a man, he preferred being called “O.C..” O.C. enjoyed being a father, but he really flourished in being a grandfather.

Orlando personified toughness all his life, even through the many challenges that he faced throughout his life. He persevered triumphantly effortlessly.  

To his sisters, he was always their protector, their mentor, and their counselor.  He was loved and admired by so many. Orlando’s motto for him and his siblings that they will carry on states:
“Brothers and sisters, strong as ever.”  “Sisters and Brothers ever so strong.”

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Lucious Rapheal McLain, one sister, Cherie A. Jones, and two brothers, James M. Crank Jr. and Masius D. Crank.

He leaves to cherish his memory two grandchildren, Tainazah McLain and Jairon McLain.  Daughter in law, Sarojinia McLain.  Five sisters, B. Span Villezon(Erwin), D. Frensae Rogers(Willie), Robin Frazier, Janet Flagler-Keith and Phyllis McLean(Terry).  Eleven nieces, six nephews, a host of great nieces and nephews, and other loving relatives and dear friends. 

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.     Dr. Maya Angelou
Brother, we will cherish every breath-taking moment you’ve given us throughout our lives.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Orlando Steward Crank, please visit our floral store.