RIP Daddy Odell

Monday, January 28, 2008

Daddy O'Dell passed away on Monday, January 21, 2008. He was the father of my Aunt Vi's husband, Uncle Richard. I attended the funeral today with my mother, who talked me into speaking. My public comments went something like the following: "Good morning, getting up to speak is not my thing, but since my mother has lost her voice today, she talked me into getting up for her. Although I didn't have a close personal relationship with Daddy O'dell, I knew very well who he was. He and my grandmother (paternal) shared a yard, which I played in on many occasions. Fortunately enough for me I never did anything bad enough to cause me to cross paths with Mr. O'dell. I can't say the same for my brother and some of my cousins. I have heard in recent years that he thought I was special, "That girl is smart," he would say. He used to watch me on the local cable station during the Little Rock Board Meetings. And I found out this week that my parents met at his home many, many years ago. So to my Uncle Richard, Aunt Vi, and my cousins: Gigi, Joi, and Ricky, I would like to say that we are sorry for your loss, we love you - God bless." I should have added that I always heard that he was a hardworking man and the perfect example of a gentleman. I can see from the picture below where my Uncle Richard got his style.