Norma Lou O'Dell

Norma Lou O’Dell (CMSGT - USAF Ret) passed away March 4 at age 92. Born October 5, 1930 in rural area near Louisville, Illinois to Grover and Etta White O’Dell, Norma was the last of 8 children. She is survived by her sister Dotty Holliday of Citrus Heights and many beloved nieces and nephews. Norma is preceded in death by two brothers and four sisters.

Norma served her country with honor for 32 years in the United States Air Force, rising to the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant. She was stationed overseas many times during her career, including a tour in South East Asia during the Vietnam conflict, and two tours in Wiesbaden, Germany. When not traveling the world, Norma was stationed at both Mather and McClellan Air Force Bases. She fell in love with Northern California during her time there, and decided to make it her permanent home. She was loved by everyone that knew her, known for her wit and generous spirit.

Norma was an athlete, proving herself to be an outstanding softball catcher when she was designated Player of the Year in the United States Air Force Southeastern Conference in 1956, where she was lovingly called “the Little General.” She also loved golf, playing at local courses and Mather Air Force Base where she co-founded the Lady Liberty Tournament in 1976, a tournament that is still played yearly and has raised thousands of dollars for veterans' programs. Norma was an avid reader and formed a book club of friends who met regularly at the Olive Garden for lunch, wine, and lively conversation. She will be so missed by all who knew her, especially her sister Dotty, her dearest friends of 50 years; Mary Thompson and Nancy Sartor of Lincoln, her many nieces and nephews. Go with God, Norma, until we meet again.

The family wishes to give a special thanks to all of the caretakers and administrators at Brookdale in Citrus Heights and all of the folks from Vitas Hospice who provided such loving care for Norma. Especially Chaplain John Sawtelle of Vitas and the home caretakers who had assisted Norma for several years, Arlene Fugere and Tammy Holtz.

A memorial service celebrating Norma’s life will be held on March 16th, 2023 at 11:00 am at Lambert Funeral Home, located at 400 Douglas Blvd in Roseville, CA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice in Norma’s name.