Jerry Leon O'Dell

Jerry Leon O'Dell, 91 years old, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 21, 2026. Jerry was born on March 14, 1934, to Goldea and E. Leon O'Dell, in Huntington, West Virginia.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Carolyn O'Dell; daughter, Cara O'Dell; son, Gregory O'Dell (Amaris); grandson, Phineas O'Dell; sister-in-law, Patsy Fifer; nephews, Eric and Jared Fifer; cousins (in-law), Michael, Jonathan, and Kimberly Thurmond; and a host of other extended family.

Jerry Leon O'Dell, 91 years old, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 21, 2026. Jerry was born on March 14, 1934, to Goldea and E. Leon O'Dell, in Huntington, West Virginia.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, Carolyn O'Dell; daughter, Cara O'Dell; son, Gregory O'Dell (Amaris); grandson, Phineas O'Dell; sister-in-law, Patsy Fifer; nephews, Eric and Jared Fifer; cousins (in-law), Michael, Jonathan, and Kimberly Thurmond; and a host of other extended family.

Jerry is preceded in death by his father, E. Leon O'Dell; mother, Goldea O'Dell; and sisters, Netta Duplanti and Roberta O'Dell.

Raised in San Diego, California, he enjoyed surfing and being near the water. He moved to Louisiana in 1969, married, and spent the remainder of his life as a resident of Baker, Louisiana. After working in the aircraft industry, and along with work as a commercial designer and artist, he operated an automotive paint and body shop until 2023. He greatly enjoyed his work and the opportunities he had to train others.

In 1952, Jerry was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses and continued to devote his life to the study and teaching of the Bible. He is remembered fondly for the faith and hope that sustained him; his humility, modesty, and tenderness and compassion toward others; and the gratitude and contentment that shaped his perspective each day.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, 1:00 PM at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 4415 Groom Road, Baker, LA 70714

The family extends a special thanks to Dr. Michael Rolfsen of the Baton Rouge Clinic for always being there.