James Paul Odom, 88, of Benton, passed away at 10 p.m., Friday, October 7, 2016, at Helia Healthcare of Benton, IL, just a few days shy of his 89th birthday.
He was born on October 21, 1927, to Paul and Julia (Beaty) Odom in Benton, IL. James farmed all his life and taught his children the value of hard work. On July 24, 1948, he married Loretta Neal. They were happily married for 68 years.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Benton where he was the head usher for several years. James was a member of the Franklin County Farm Bureau, and the director of the organization for 25 years and a trustee on the Browning Township board. He loved helping his children and grandchildren. James enjoyed spending time with his family.
James is survived by his loving spouse, Loretta Odom; one daughter, Karen Hodges and husband Bill of Denver, CO; one son, Brad Odom and wife Cyndy of Benton, IL; three granddaughters, Molly Koester and husband Brandon of Benton, IL, Emily Munoz and husband Victor of Ewing, IL, Julia Hodges of Denver, CO; one grandson, Benji Odom and wife Bryann of Ewing, IL; six great-grandchildren and one sister, Irene Odom Whittington of Whittington, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Julia Odom, a grandson, Josh Odom, a granddaughter, Jennifer Hodges, a great-grandson, Deegan Odom and a brother, Everett Odom.
Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, Benton, IL.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 11, 2016, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., Benton, IL.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2016, at 1:00 p.m., at Pate Funeral Home with the Reverend Mark Minor officiating. Burial will take place in the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery.
A special thanks is extended to all the caregivers who helped take care of James.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Benton IL, and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.
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