Odell Esters

Odell Esters, was born on May 15, 1944, to Jim and Clara Esters. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife, daughters, and sons-in-law. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose life was marked by faith, service, and love.

Odell grew up in Natchitoches, Louisiana and attended Allen High School, where he made lasting connections and forged the foundation for his future. In 1973, at the Smyrna Seventh Day Adventist Church, Odell gave his life to the Lord, a commitment that would shape the remainder of his life. Over the years, he served in various roles within his church, including Deacon, Elder, and Pathfinder Director working with the youth, faithfully dedicating himself to the spiritual growth of others. His service in these roles was a testament to his deep love for God and his desire to help others find their way in faith. After relocating to Huntsville, Alabama in 2012, he joined the Oakwood University Seventh Day Adventist Church. There he served as a faithful deacon and assisted with the Oakwood University food pantry serving the local community until his health began to decline.

Professionally, Odell worked for over 20 years in management for the City of Houston Water Purification Plant, where he was known for his reliability, quiet strength, and dedication to his work. His family and colleagues admired his commitment and sense of responsibility, as well as his unassuming, yet strong leadership style.

In his personal time, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, exercising, working on cars, and sharing the word of God with others. After retirement, he dedicated even more time to gardening, enjoyed some bike riding, and cherished moments occasionally playing pool at home with his oldest daughter and son-in-law, and spending quality time with grandchildren.

A man of few words, Odell was known for his thoughtful nature. He would often observe a situation carefully before responding, offering wise counsel when needed. He was always straightforward in his reply. He had a quiet demeanor and always took the time to edify others with the word of God. His love for people was evident through his countless prayers for others, always looking for opportunities to lift others up in prayer.

He was deeply devoted to his family, always putting their needs first and offering them the unwavering support they needed. His legacy lives on in his wife: Clydia Esters; three daughters, and sons-in-Law: Tecelia Esters (Donald) Spence, Kirstin Esters (Victor) Perkins, and Charis Esters (Bryan) Landers; son: Cedric (Rose) Esters; grandsons: Kameron Rosemond, Khaleb Perkins, Khayre Perkins, Brendyn Landers, Brycen Landers, and Nicholas Esters; and a granddaughter: Erin Perkins.

He also leaves to mourn his passing, eight siblings; four sisters: Jessie Smith, Rachel Esters, Ida Wafer, and Irma Odums, and four brothers: Matthew Esters, Willie Esters, John Esters, James Esters and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Clara Esters; five siblings: three sisters, Lessie Phillips, Lorine Johnson, Annie Mae Taylor; two brothers: Leo Esters, and Lewis Esters; and son, Michael Esters.

His impact on the lives of those around him cannot be measured. He will be remembered for his faith, his quiet strength, and his loving heart. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith in God.

You will be dearly missed. See you on resurrection day.