Obituary of Mary Beth Orange

MaryBeth (Simon) Orange of Midland, Michigan passed away on July 15, 2025. 

Born on March 19, 1963, to Arthur and Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Simon in Saginaw, MaryBeth enjoyed her childhood surrounded by a large family and close circle of friends.

She married Anthony ‘Tony’ Orange on March 27, 1982, and together they counted among their most precious blessings and riches the birth of five beautiful children, all of whom survive her: Elizabeth (Gabe Dobis), Adam (Janelle Orange), Anthony (Lindsey Orange), Erika (Kevin David), and Aaron. At the time of her death, MaryBeth—most happily referred to as Mimi—is survived by her six grandchildren: Isabella, Gavin, Hildegard, Johannes, Sawyer, and Oaklee.

MaryBeth’s ability to reach people through her profession as a beautician was apparent by those who knew her best. Having lost both parents at a young age, her work was a natural fit because the majority of her career was spent working at various senior and nursing homes, and she often spent more time with the residents beyond a hair cut, trim, or shampoo. Her way with words, sense of humor, infectious laughter, and kindness were gifts that extended beyond a pair of scissors and hair brush. She also often sacrificed her personal time, limited by an already busy schedule, to make her family and friends look and feel good, but to also show them all what it means to work hard. 

In her free time, MaryBeth enjoyed bowling; reading; playing golf with her brother and sisters; tending to her beautiful flower gardens; volunteering at events hosted by the Eagles Club; trying—on more than one occasion—for a late night jackpot at several local casinos; and spending time with Winnie and Otto.

MaryBeth is predeceased by her parents, her in-laws Clifton and Margarete Orange, sisters Julie Simon and Kimberly (Greg) Light, and her brothers-in-law Robert Eddy and David Orange. 

She is survived by her siblings Shelley (William) Donnelly, Vickie Eddy, Patti (David) Ostler, Arthur ‘AJ’ Simon, and their children, as well as Tony’s siblings and their families, answering to ‘Aunt Mo’ by some, and ‘Aunt MaryBeth’ by others. MaryBeth also wanted to recognize her long-lasting and loving relationship to her cousin, JoAnn Dodge of Palmeto, Florida.

The family extends its thanks to all family and friends for their dedication and care during MaryBeth’s most recent health struggles, and in particular, to her sisters-in-law Linda Orange and Cynthia Coates, and to her very good friend Lorri Halazon.

Honoring MaryBeth’s request, she has been cremated and no formal funeral will take place. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to local senior and nursing homes, the National MS Society, or the American Cancer Society.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.