Jerry O'Dell

On June 22, 2025, Gilbert “Jerry” O'Dell decided it was time to hang up his fishing pole, cash out his casino chips, and call it a day — peacefully at home in Kettering, Ohio. Born in Dayton on September 22, 1943, Jerry lived a life full of laughter, loyalty, and a bit of mischief.

He was the proud son of Huey and Zelia O'Dell, and the spirited sibling of Annetta, Carol, Denver, and Melvin. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rebbeca and former wife Nanci Etienne — and one can only imagine the reunion and storytelling going on now.

Jerry is survived by his legacy of love and laughter: daughters Sheri, Michelle and preceded in death Elessa; sons Timothy, James, Mark, and Gordon; and a lively bunch of grandchildren — Jake, Danielle, Taylor, Tessa, and Brandilyn — who inherited his competitive streak and his big heart. He is also survived by his ever-growing group of great-grandchildren: Collin, Cameron, Cali, Millie, Keaton, Aria, Kayson, Alivia, and Eliana — each will grow up hearing the legendary tales about “Grandpa Jerry” who could catch fish with charm, mow a lawn like a pro, and never, ever back down from a dominoes challenge.

An avid outdoorsman, Jerry felt most at home with a fishing rod in hand, a behind the wheel of a boat, and a cheap cigar clenched between his teeth — preferably headed toward a secret fishing spot or a new adventure. He was a crack shot with a firearm, a ruthless (yet somehow lovable) competitor in poker and dominoes, and, according to many, the best lawn boy to ever walk the Earth. He found joy in the little things: family gatherings filled with noise and food, belly laughs around the table, and the unmistakable jingle of a slot machine. He loved hard, played harder, and left behind a family that adored him and stories that will live on far beyond his time.

To know Jerry was to know a man who fiercely loved his family, fiercely protected the thermostat, and fiercely hated losing a hand of cards. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of calling him theirs.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Calvary Cemetery St. Henry Chapel, 1625 Calvary Drive, Dayton, Ohio 45409 with a Celebration of Jerry’s Life at 2:00 p.m. Reverend Jason Bunger celebrating. And all who knew Jerry are invited to bring a memory, a smile, and — if you’re brave — challenge someone to a game of dominoes in his honor. Inurnment Calvary Cemetery.

Rest easy, Jerry. May the fish always be biting, the cards always fall your way, the cigars stay lit, and the lawn never need mowing again.

Condolences may be sent in Jerry’s name to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com

All are invited to N.C.R. Country Club (Doors open at 4:00 p.m.)