James Orso

James Howard Orso, age 83, of Mobile, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of January 23, 2026.

Born on November 14, 1942, in Birmingham, Alabama, James lived a life defined by service, dedication, and deep love for his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964. Following his military service, he began a distinguished 30-year career with the Mobile Police Department, where he served from 1964 until his retirement in 1994 as Deputy Police Chief. His commitment to law enforcement continued when he served as Chief of Police in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, from 1997 to 2001. Being a police officer was more than a career to James - it was his calling, and he carried that sense of duty and honor throughout his life.

James graduated from the University of South Alabama in 1973, balancing his education with his growing career and family life.

On December 10, 1965, he married the love of his life, Brenda Griffis Orso, beginning a marriage that spanned 60 devoted years. Together they built a family that became the center of his world.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vidmer Harold Orso, Sr. and Edith Louise Chasen Orso, and his brother, Vidmer Harold Orso, Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Griffis Orso; his children, Pamela Orso Brooks and Wendy Orso Williams (Jeff); his grandchildren, Joseph Slade Calametti, Justin Shane Calametti (Ashlin), Taylor Brooke Williams, Hanna Williams Black (Luke), Mason James Williams, and Harper Kate Williams; his great-grandson, Kyson James Calametti; his sisters, Joanne Orso Harvey, Geraldine Orso Tanner (Gene), and Victoria Orso Hendrix; his brother-in-law, Billy Griffis (Wanda); and many loving nieces and nephews.

Outside of his career, James loved life on the water and on the course. He enjoyed boating, fishing, and golfing, but nothing brought him more pride or joy than his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. He was a steady presence, a protector by nature, and a man whose quiet strength shaped generations of his family.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home in Mobile, Alabama, with family visitation from 10:00-11:00 a.m., public visitation from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., and funeral services beginning at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow in Mobile Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

James leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and love that will live on in all who knew him.