In loving memory of Cory Orel,

February 18, 1978 – July 4, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, and brother, Cory Orel, on July 4, 2025. Cory joined his Savior in heaven, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. Born on February 18, 1978, Cory was raised in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Just days after graduating New Smyrna Beach High School in 1996, Cory enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he honorably served for 4.5 years. During that time, he received his training as a crash fire rescue crew member obtaining the rank of Sergeant before leaving the corps. He then attended the Rescue Fire Academy at Prince William County, Virginia. He spent the next three years serving the Prince William County Fire Rescue Station. It was from here that he would be called back to the Marine Corps as a Sergeant for the Air Station at Cherry Point serving as a Crash Fire Rescue supervisor. He would only be there a short time before he was sent to what became home, his beloved Camp Lejeune. A proud veteran, Cory served Camp Lejeune Fire Emergency Services in Jacksonville, North Carolina, as a firefighter and paramedic for 19 years, medically retiring at the rank of Captain in 2021.

In 2003, Cory married and a few years later took on his most cherished role in life: father. He was the proud dad of "the Oreo chix" as he coined them. His three girls were the loves of his life and his greatest pride and joy.

Cory will be remembered for his personal mantra, "Others before self; neglect neither." He lived each day sharing his many talents to help others. He was gifted musically, sharing his talent with the congregation at Infant of Prague regularly. He loved woodworking and often shared that love and his knowledge of technology to help those around him.

Cory lived his life with purpose, passion, humor and a deep love for people. We celebrate the life of Cory Orel- patriot, protector, and devoted friend.

Cory is survived by his wife of 22 years, April Orel; daughters Destiny, Carissa, and Kayla; parents, Paul and Donna Orel; sister, Monica Blankenship (Luke); and niece and nephew, Brooke and Landon; biological father, Donald Taylor (Becky); and many extended family and friends.

A memorial mass will be held at 10:00 am on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the Infant of Prague Catholic Church with a committal service immediately following at the church's columbarium to honor his service as a United States Marine and firefighter. The family will receive visitors from 4:00pm to 6:00pm on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville, North Carolina.

The family is requesting that donations are given in lieu of flowers. Donations will support the future education of his daughters through a College Saving account. You can contribute by going to or contacting any Navy Federal branch and using the information: April Orel 299

Zelle information linked to this account will be posted on social media as soon as it is available.

Thank you to everyone that has helped us along in Cory's life journey. We will honor is legacy by living as Cory would say, "Faith engaged!"