Gloria Marie O'Dell

Born with a natural grace and striking beauty, Gloria captured life with energy in her earliest years as a near-pro figure skater and a protective force for her younger sisters. More than her outward beauty, however, it was her internal fortitude that defined her. She was a remarkably hardworking woman, and incredibly resilient and wise. In her final years she lost her physical independence due to a debilitating battle with scoliosis, but she never lost her spirit. She kept hope close, fighting incredibly hard every single day to get better, carrying herself with a dignified grace that never wavered.

Nanny was happiest simply spending time with her family, anchoring them through generations with guidance, unconditional love, and her comforting presence. Having lived her 93 years with purpose and strength, she has now found a hard-earned, beautiful peace at the end of a long and often painful journey.

She was preceded in death by her husband as well as her beloved middle son, Harry O’Dell, whose memory she carried close in her heart.

Nanny’s incredible legacy of strength and wisdom lives on through the family she nurtured. She is survived by her devoted children: her daughter, Linda, and her husband Jary; and her youngest son, Bob and his wife, Angie, with whom she shared a home and a beautiful daily life and who will forever carry the honor of the years they shared under one roof.

Gloria’s spirit will always be cherished by her grandchildren, who look to her life as a compass: Melissa, Stephen, Barbara and their spouses, and her youngest grandchild, Liam. The gift Nanny gave to Liam, helping to raise him in his formative years is remarkable and testament to her devotion and will to shape his life forever. She also leaves behind her two cherished great-grandchildren, Alex and Maddie who will always hold their Nanny close to their hearts.

Her impact was immeasurable. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love and her wisdom will always remain unforgettable and an unbreakable thread in the fabric of our lives.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Angels, 12905 State Road 70 E Lakewood Ranch, FL on June 4, 2026 at 11:00 am.

In honor of Gloria’s life and generous spirit, the family asks that in lieu of flowers a memorial donation can be made to St. Jude's Research Hospital, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Sea Turtle Conservation and Research, or the Humane Society.