Lillian Orlich, Teacher Of Nearly 70 Years In Prince William County Schools, Dies

MANASSAS, VA — Prince William County Public Schools is remembering longtime teacher Lillian Orlich, who died on March 7.

Orlich, 95, of Manassas, was a teacher of nearly 70 years who moved from Manhattan to Manassas in 1950 to pursue teaching. She first taught at the original Osbourn High School and moved to Osbourn Park High School in 1975. At that high school, she taught until her retirement in 2017.

"I am very saddened to hear that Ms. Lillian Orlich passed away recently," said PWCS Superintendent LaTanya McDade in a statement. "Known as Ms. O to thousands of students, Ms. Orlich is a true legend in Prince William County education."

According to her obituary, she is survived by "the many lives helped and touched by my teaching, loving and caring."

Orlich was previously honored with the dedication of Osbourn Park High School auditorium to her on April 26, 2003 as well as the Lillian M. Orlich Student Services Center at Gainesville High School in 2021. At the time, former Manassas Mayor Hal Parrish, who was Orlich's student, said "We should all be so lucky as to have teachers who challenge us, who express high expectations for us, who guide us to be better, not only during class and school but for creating a better life and setting us on the path for the future."

Although Orlich retired, her heart stayed with the school system. That's why she directed a memorial service to be planned at Osbourn Park High School officiated by school principals she worked with during her teaching career. The memorial service will be held in the Osbourn Park High School auditorium at 2 p.m. on March 17. Other staff and students who she worked with are also invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity supporting children can be made in Orlich's name.