Longtime Orange Resident Anna Mae Caillier Passes Away at 97

Beloved community member and devout Catholic leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and service.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Anna Mae Caillier, a lifelong resident of West Orange, Texas, passed away at the age of 97. Born in 1929 in Catahoula, Louisiana, Caillier moved to Orange during World War II and spent the rest of her life there, working various jobs and raising her family. She was known for her deep Catholic faith, active involvement in her church, and warm hospitality.

Why it matters

Caillier's passing marks the end of an era in Orange, as she was a fixture in the community for decades, contributing to her church and local organizations. Her story reflects the changes the city has undergone, from its wartime boom to the present day, and highlights the importance of faith, family, and community involvement.

The details

During her time in Orange, Caillier worked at the Bengal Theater and Buccaneer restaurant. She met her husband, Paul Caillier, after the war and they settled in West Orange, where they raised their three children. Caillier was deeply involved in St. Mary's Catholic Church, serving in numerous roles such as the Catholic Daughters Society, Altar Society, choir, soup kitchen, and Eucharistic Adoration. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, and Ladies Auxiliary to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

  • Anna Mae Caillier was born in 1929 in Catahoula, Louisiana.
  • During World War II, Caillier's family relocated to Orange, Texas when the shipyards and the city were booming with wartime industry.
  • Caillier met her husband, Paul Caillier, after the war ended and they settled in West Orange, where they raised their three children.
  • Caillier and her husband were married for 55 wonderful years.
  • Caillier passed away on February 18, 2026.

The players

Anna Mae Caillier

A lifelong resident of West Orange, Texas, who was known for her deep Catholic faith, active involvement in her church, and warm hospitality.

Paul Caillier

Caillier's husband of 55 years, with whom she settled in West Orange and raised their three children.

Johnny Lee

Caillier's son, who provided care for his mother in her later years.

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What’s next

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 19, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Orange, with Father Antony Paulose officiating. Entombment will follow at St. Mary Catholic Cemetery in Orange.

The takeaway

Caillier's life exemplified the values of faith, family, and community service that have long been important in Orange. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her and the generations that follow.