Orlando James 'OJ' 'Juice' Haskins

Orlando “OJ”, “Juice” James Haskins was born on March 4, 1987, and passed away unexpectedly at his home in Lynchburg, Virginia, on June 7, 2023. Janie Brown, his adored grandmother, and his grandfather, Willie James Raven, Sr., preceded him in death. Orlando is survived by his grandmother, Lucy Raven; his parents, Willie James Raven, Jr., and Dietres Denise Haskins; his wife, Robyn Loving-Haskins; daughter, Mercedes Loving; stepsons, Jeremy and Joshua Loving of Amherst; and daughter, Makiyah Spinner of Lynchburg and devoted friend, Michelle Spinner; daughter, A’mirah Haskins; brother, Starling Lamont Haskins of Lynchburg; a special friend, Ashley Mayhew of Lynchburg; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives; and a host of devoted friends. The family will receive guests at Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg, VA on June 23rd from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The funeral will be held on Saturday, June 24th, at 2 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg, VA, with burial to follow at Megginson Family Cemetery.

OJ was a phenomenal young man, athlete, and chef. In middle and high school, he played football and basketball. He eventually traded his sports gear for fatherhood, where he excelled the most. OJ loved his daughters immensely. His greatest joy was watching them grow into amazing young women with bright futures.

OJ had a captivating personality; he never met a stranger and left a lasting impression on everyone he came into contact with. When OJ entered the room, it immediately became brighter, and there was never a dull moment. He was a gifted young man with a variety of skills and many accomplishments; he fought a forest fire in Abingdon, Virginia, where he collaborated with firefighters and earned his firefighting certification. He also obtained his Serve Safe certification, and over the years, he obtained numerous other certificates and learned a variety of trades. He undoubtedly captured the hearts of his family and friends by being such a loving person.

OJ loved God, and though he never joined a church, he communed with Him in his many hours of solitude. He lived a full life in his 36 years and would undoubtedly tell you that, despite his faults, he wouldn’t change a thing. Character is formed through trials and errors, and character is what builds and shapes a person. He adored his family and worked tirelessly throughout his life to ensure that they understood how much he cherished and loved them.

OJ’s untimely passing has shocked the family, and while we mourn his physical departure, we fondly remember his catchphrase, “That’s what’s up,” knowing he’ll be watching over his family as we look up, eagerly awaiting the day when we’ll all be reunited.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.