Anna Jane Odum

Anna Jane Odum, beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and cherished matriarch of her family, passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and treasured memories. She was born on July 3, 1927, at her family home in Bethlehem, GA, to her parents Mary Lee Jackson Smith and Oscar David Smith. Jane was the oldest of five children, embracing her role with love, responsibility, and unwavering support for her siblings throughout her life.

Jane graduated from Winder High School in 1944 and continued her education at West Georgia. During her working years, she held various positions, including working in a doctor’s office in Brunswick, GA, and later at Belk in Winder. She dedicated the majority of her career to Empire Manufacturing, where her hard work, loyalty, and commitment were highly valued until her retirement.

A woman of deep faith, Jane was a lifetime member of Bethlehem First United Methodist Church, where she actively served in numerous roles throughout her life. She sang in the choir, served as the Worship Chair, helped with the church youth programs, and was a proud member of the United Methodist Women (UMW), reflecting her lifelong commitment to serving her church and community.

While Jane held many roles in her life, one of her most cherished and important jobs was babysitting her grandchildren. She took immense pride in spending time with them, creating lasting memories filled with love, laughter, and life lessons that will be treasured forever. Her love for her family was boundless, and her favorite pastime was being surrounded by them—and their friends, who became a special part of her village. In her free time, she spent hours talking on the phone, watching sporting events, and enjoying cooking shows.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jim Odum; grandson, Will Wages; daughter-in-law, Joni Odum; and siblings: Wink Smith, Drucilla Malcom, and Betty Kelley.

Jane is survived by her loving children: Susan Wages (Don), Pat Lanthier (Greg), and Jimmy Odum; her brother, Bobby Smith; her grandchildren: Meridith Wages Peck (David), Sally Lanthier, Trapper Lanthier, and Madison Odum; her great-grandchild, Wilkes Peck; and her bonus great-grandchildren: Avery, Grayson, and Declan Peck. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and their families, all of whom she loved dearly and who will cherish her memory.

As the heart and matriarch of her family, Jane provided unwavering love, guidance, and support that will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Known for her warm hospitality, she was an incredible cook and was especially famous for her pound cakes, which brought joy to countless family gatherings and community events. Her kitchen was always a place of comfort, filled with delicious food, laughter, and love. As a devoted friend, she touched the lives of many with her kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit.

Her life was marked by steadfast devotion to her family, friends, church, and community, leaving lasting memories for generations to come. Jane will forever be remembered with love, gratitude, and fondness by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services:

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, at Smith Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, at Bethlehem First United Methodist Church. Jane will lie in state from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethlehem Methodist Cemetery Fund, 709 Christmas Ave., Bethlehem, GA 30620.