Gordon Leon Odom

Gordon was born July 20, 1945, in Alamogordo, New Mexico to Thomas and Ellen (Lowe) Odom. Raised in south Texas, Gordon graduated from Agua Dulce High School in 1964. After proudly serving his country for two tours in Vietnam as a United States Marine with the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Gordon returned home and received his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from St. Edward’s University in 1975. Upon graduation, he served as a police officer with the Austin Police Department. He married the love of his life, Deborah Darnelle Biggs (Debbie), on March 16, 1991, an anniversary chosen to represent their shared love of Bible verse John 3:16.

Throughout his life, Gordon boldly tried anything and usually succeeded. He loved his God, his country, his family, and never wavered in his convictions. He fearlessly welcomed new adventures, loved to cook, and fish. His many accomplishments include owning and operating three different restaurants, working as a car salesman, becoming a licensed Baptist minister, and a published author. In 2015, Gordon published A Common Man’s Understanding of God and the Bible, not with the intention of making money, but simply with hope that others would be touched by its message. He was known for his dry sense of humor, quick wit, selflessness, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

Gordon is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 30 years, Debbie; his two daughters, Stephanie and Holli Odom of Austin; his two step-children, Brandon Byrns of Leander and Kimberly Goode of Austin, who never addressed him as a “step-parent” as they were considered his own; and his five grandchildren, Sarah, Elijah, Emily, Shelbi, and Dylan. As a very proud grandfather he would often brag to anyone who would listen about what good grandchildren they are.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 3rd at 11 o’clock at Union Hall Baptist Church located at 301 County Road 259, Liberty Hill, Texas, 78642.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wcfishleander.com for the Odom family.