John F. Odell, II

Mr. John F. Odell, II, age 85, of Rome, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at the Rome Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Born in Mobile, Alabama on June 21, 1921, John was the son of the late John and Edna (McGrew) Odell. He was raised and educated in Fairhope, Alabama. A veteran of World War II, he served with the U. S. Air Force, and had the distinction of being the first Chief Master Sergeant that the Air Force appointed. Attaining this rank is the pinnacle of an enlisted member’s career, and as a mentor and advisor to officers and commanders, John formed many true friendships during his 24 years of service. He retired from the Air Force in 1966. He was joined in marriage with the former Catherine DiSpirito on July 16, 1949, with whom he shared 37 years until her passing on January 26, 1987. Subsequent to his retirement, Mr. Odell was employed with the Observer-Dispatch from 1969-79, where he worked in the capacity of district manager. A benevolent, genteel, and decent man, John was a health enthusiast and worked out daily until he was hindered by illness. As a sports enthusiast, he was especially loyal to the Syracuse University basketball team, and the University of Alabama College football team. John was mindful of current events and pursued politics as a special interest. As a fervent family man, he enjoyed his grandchildren, and in his later years enjoyed watching them play sports. He was a communicant of St. Peter’s Church. John is survived by his daughter, Maureen O’Dell of Philadelphia; his son and daughter-in-law, John and Carla Odell of Deerfield; his cherished grandchildren, John F. Odell, IV, and Austin Odell; his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. His extended family includes his in-laws, Tina Moody, Frank and Shirley DiSpirito, Lena and Roc Carzo, and Anthony and Barb DiSpirito. He was predeceased by his sisters, Katherine E. Keller, and Lillian McPherson; and his in-laws, Sam and Elizabeth DiSpirito. The entire family offers its heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff of the 2nd floor at the Rome Memorial Hospital for their kindness, support, and care. Visitation will be held today (Friday) from 4-7 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in John’s honor to the Disabled American Veterans (D.A.V.), or the American Heart Association; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Mr. Odell’s funeral will commence on Saturday morning at 11:00 from the funeral home and at 12:00 noon at St. Peter’s Church in North Utica where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with Military Honors. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

John F. Odell, II

June 21, 1921 - September 27, 2006