Francis Dominic Orbin, Sr. went home to be with the Lord on Monday, July 28, 2025. He was surrounded by his family at his home in Laurel when he drew his final breath. We celebrate the life of a man who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.
Born in Baltimore to Dominic and Theresa Orbin, he took his roles in life seriously: as a big brother to Dorothy Tyler (Jess) and predeceased Tommy Orbin (Sharon) Godfather and uncle to Travis Orbin; Godfather to Jimmy Rosier; former husband to Diana Orbin; children Frank Orbin Jr., Jeff Orbin (Aimee), and Deana Leubecker (Mike), remarried to Karen Miller and stepfather to Chris Keene (Nicole); Pop Pop to Jacob Leubecker (Valarie), Rachael Leubecker, Daniel Leubecker, Caroline Orbin, Lauren Orbin, Corbin Keene, Colin Keene, Cara Keene; and Great Great Pop Pop to Savanna Leubecker.
Nothing made him happier than watching his family grow. He lit up when he talked about them, and he truly treasured every milestone, every gathering, every visit—no matter how big or small. He loved his family. He was a rock, the steady hand, the voice of reason— the one you called when you needed to be reminded: “It will all work out.” That was one of his favorite sayings, and when he said it, you believed him because he lived it. He trusted God, he prayed daily, and he never missed a chance to lift up those he loved.
A graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, he was a machinist by trade at Western Electric and the Baltimore Sun newspaper. He was a man of grit and determination. He worked his way up the hard way— with callused hands, sharp skills, and a relentless work ethic. He didn’t talk about getting things done — he got things done. If something was broken, he fixed it. If someone needed help, he showed up. That was just who he was.
And let’s not forget, the man loved to drive. He had more cars over a lifetime than some people have shoes —always chasing a great deal, always up for a new ride. Karen, his loving, selfless wife and partner for the past 29 years, rode shotgun with him. Together, they shared something beautiful. They spent countless hours driving, singing loudly, talking, laughing, dancing, and, of course, enjoying a drink or two. Their love was full of joy, music, and the kind of deep connection that lasts a lifetime.
He had another love in his life, the game of golf— not just the challenge, but the camaraderie, the beauty of the greens, tee time with friends, and the simple joy of a well-struck shot. Golf wasn’t just a game to him; it was a place of peace, connection, and lifelong friendships.
When not spending time with Karen, or golfing on the greens, he enjoyed writing. Later in life, his passion for writing grew into something more. He began submitting articles to the Laurel Star newspaper— using his voice to speak up for what he believed in, to offer perspective, and to try to better his community and beyond. He was a good writer— thoughtful, clear, and, as always, unafraid to say what needed saying.
And oh, the stories. Whether it was about his childhood, his work, golf, or just something he saw at the gas station, his stories had a rhythm, a twinkle, and a tendency to grow more dramatic over the years. That was part of the charm. His storytelling brought people together, made us laugh, and made memories last.
Even in his final days, he remained fully himself: kind, curious, chatting with the nurses, making people feel comfortable, known, and important — just like he always had. That was his gift.
So yes, we grieve his absence, but we also celebrate the full, funny, faith-filled life of a man who believed in people, who made you feel safe, who taught us to work hard, to speak up, to laugh often, and to love without fear.
And when he closed his eyes for the last time in this life, he saw the face of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Save a place for us, until we see you again, and we all enjoy the Light that shines forever.
We love you. Thank you for everything. You’ll always be riding with us.
A memorial service to Celebrate the Life of Francis Dominic Orbin will be held on Sunday, the 31st of August from 2-5 p.m. at the American Legion Post 194, 338 East Main Street, Rising Sun, Maryland 21911. Food and refreshments will be provided.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hsdfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.