James Harold O’Dell, 72, of Liberty, Mo., died at his home on June 8, 2019.
He was born on April 23,1947 in Excelsior Springs, Mo., to Velma and Harold O’Dell.
Jim, as he was known, was a magnanimous personality. One could say he truly lived with his whole being. His heart, dreams, and personality were larger than life. When he walked into a room you could not help but gravitate towards him. He often spent his days “holding court,” as we called it with a good drink in his hand surrounded by those he loved. In his presence, one could always feel strength. He was a force and he gave so much of himself in everything that he did. He was not always easy, but most things in life worth experiencing never are.
The fabric of our family was created and will be forever defined by this remarkably successful, outgoing, and unforgettable character. His departure is in and of itself earth moving. He will be remembered as a loving husband and father, a successful entrepreneur, and a good friend to those who knew him well. Above all else his love for his family will always be remembered as unshakable.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda O’Dell; his daughters, Christine Dressler (Richard) and Jody Moore (Nathan); his sister, Marsha Pennington (Roger); and brother-in-law, Bill Dunfee (Victoria). He was blessed with four grandchildren, Jacob, Lindsey, Christian,and Noah; along with four great grandchildren, Quade, Talon, Mina, and Talia.
Jim was the owner of many diverse businesses before he started J H O’Dell Properties, LLC and Clay County Storage. His company built many homes in Liberty and the surrounding areas.
A dear friend once wrote the following about Jim, titled “Renaissance Man”:
He’s published a paper and tended the bar
Owned a gas station and sold you a car
He was Liberty’s landlord
Owned a goose plucking plant
You think it won’t make money
Do not tell Jim that it Can’t!
Please join us as we celebrate the life of James H. O’Dell from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 2019 at Conrad’s (banquet room), located at 210 N. State Rte. 291, Liberty, MO and bring your special stories and fond memories of this unforgettable human being. https://www.conrads816.com/
In lieu of flowers, the family hopes this inspires you to donate to the following organizations:
Mayo Clinic Department of Development for ALS
St Jude’s Hospital Research ASL
Wayside Waifs for Cats and Dogs
A private graveside ceremony will be held July 1, 2019.
Our Sincere Condolences
My sincere condolences to his family.
Scott Saucier
So sorry about your loss. Thinking about you.
Kim Dunfee
