Joan Barbara Odgers

Joan Barbara Odgers was born on October 26, 1942, the beloved daughter of Florence and Charles Yeo. She had several close friends, one in particular—Helene—whom she had known since grade school. Throughout their lives, the two remained a constant presence for each other, faithfully staying in touch and sharing visits and conversations that brought joy and continuity across the decades.

A city girl at heart, Joan married Paul Reindl, a farm boy building his future in the United States Air Force. Together they raised three children until tragedy struck in 1969, when Paul was declared Missing in Action following a paratrooper mission. Suddenly, Joan became a single mother of three, a working woman, and—after several moves—a homeowner, all within just two years.

Determined to provide for her family, Joan pursued a college education while working and raising her children, ultimately earning her bachelor’s degree. This achievement led her to Texas, where she continued her career as a civil servant. There she met Everett “Ev” Odgers, who had also lost a spouse and was raising two children. When Ev asked Joan to marry him, their families blended into a household of seven, with children ranging in age from four to thirteen. If that wasn’t enough activity, Joan continued to balance the demands of a five-child home and her work while also earning her master’s degree.

For the next three decades, Joan and Ev moved wherever the military needed them, living in California, Florida, the Washington, D.C., area, and several Air Force bases in between. As a result, her family is now dispersed around the country. During these years, Joan worked as a civil servant in the Air Force financial arena until her retirement.

In her later years, Joan embraced her independence. She explored real estate for a short time, purchased her own home, and devoted herself to numerous volunteer opportunities. For more than 30 years, she cherished vacations with family, memorable reunions in Hilton Head, and everyday moments of connection—always ready to lend a listening ear, a helping hand, or thoughtful advice to those who sought it.

Joan is survived by her daughter, Donna Mathis; her son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Sue Reindl; her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Troy Deeds; her stepson and daughter-in-law, Bill and Maureen Odgers; and her stepdaughter, Kara Council, as well as her ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild on the way.

For her final resting place, her remains will be taken to Iowa, where she will be laid to rest among many members of the Reindl family. Services are anticipated in the spring or summer. Joan will be remembered for her resilience, time with family, and the steady wisdom and kindness she shared throughout her life.