Extracted from The Brazosport Facts (Clute, TX)
James Richard Odom, Jr.
Born on February 9, 1942 in Oakdale, Louisiana, James Richard Odom, Jr. was the son of James Richard and Julia Flores Odom. He grew up and attended school in Oakdale before serving his country in the U.S. Navy for seven years. After his honorable discharge, he made his home in Robstown, Texas.
On April 1, 1974, he was married to Jo Beth Wittbecker in Bellville. They lived in Freeport for a couple of years before moving to Brazoria. For the past four years, they have made their home in Bellville.
Richard was employed as an electrician in the industrial construction industry. A member of the First Baptist Church in Brazoria, he enjoyed coaching girls softball, and loved fishing and hunting.
He passed away Saturday, August 17, 2002, in a Houston hospital at the age of 60 years, six months and eight days.
He is survived by his wife: Jo Beth Odom of Bellville; children: April Gonzalez and her husband Mario of Round Rock and James Royce Odom of Bellville; grandson: Matthew Stein of Bellville; sister: Patsy Martone of North Carolina; brother-in-law: Charles Mikeska of Wesley; sister-in-law: Hertha Mikeska of Wesley; mother-in-law: Jearl Ann Wittbecker of Bellville; beloved pet and faithful companion: Boo; numerous other relatives and many friends.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents; one sister and his father-in-law.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 20, 2002, at the First Baptist Church in Bellville with Reverend Jeff English officiating. Burial will follow in the Pilgrims Rest Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Mario Gonzalez, Jimmy Poffenberger, Charles Mikeska, Brandon Schovajsa, Eric Nahlin and G.B. Oberrender.
In lieu of usual remembrances, friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the First Baptist Church, 504 East Strauss, Bellville, Texas 77418.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Schmidt Funeral Home in Bellville-(979) 865-2424.
Wednesday, August 21, 2002