Anne Orton Torrens

Jackson-Anne Orton Torrens passed away at her home on Friday, June 24, 2022 at the age of 93.

Anne was born in her family home, known as the Audubon House on East Broadway in Salem, NY.  She was the youngest of four, Allen Orton, Julian Orton and Janice Orton Spallholtz.  Anne was known as “Babe Orton”.

She attended college at the University of Arizona, Tucson and graduated from Katherine Gibbs in Rhode Island.  Anne lived and worked in New York City.  She shared apartments with her Salem pals, Carol and Jackie.

Anne married Kenneth C. Torrens in 1953, who was a Sea Captain, born in Cambridge, NY who sailed the world as a Merchant Seaman.  Together they travelled extensively, starting with a three-month European honeymoon tour.  They had three children while in Salem, Kenneth, John and Andrea.  The family moved to Demarest, NJ in 1960 where K.C. became a Port Captain for Farrell Lines in New York City.  In 1965, K.C. bought a sailboat, a 38-foot steel yawl, naming her the “Salem Witch”.  The family cruised on Long Island Sound from New York City to Massachusetts. Both harrowing and happy adventures always culminated with a much-deserved cocktail in the safety in harbor.

Anne was always a good sport.  She enjoyed decorating and was talented at putting together a beautiful home.  Her beloved K.C. died in 1987.  She remained fiercely independent.  She loved Salem, her mountain views, and remained close with her childhood friends. 

Anne is survived by her three children; four grandchildren; four great grandchildren; two cats, and the Salem Witch.

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