Oda S McGaha Jr.

Oda Smith McGaha, Jr., affectionately known as Mac, was born on February 2, 1940, in Frederick, Maryland, and passed away on October 13, 2026, in Palmetto, Florida.

Mac was preceded in death by his parents, Oda S. (Sr.) and Annetta McGaha, and his brothers, Arnold and Pat. Mac is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Anne; his daughters, Anita Collins (Donny) and Sally Merritt (Mitch); and his grandchildren, Brittani Collins, Zach Collins (Anna), Stephanie Merritt, Melissa Merritt (Rich), and Mackenzie Merritt. He also leaves behind four beloved great-grandchildren: Blakely, Isla, Eliana, and Hayes. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy McGaha, and sister-in-law, Sue McGaha (Bob), as well as several cousins, nephews and nieces.

Mac was fortunate to have several longtime friends who were like brothers to him. Mac treasured the camaraderie and loyalty they shared. These friends held a special place in his heart, and their friendship was one of life’s many blessings.

Mac proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He had a deep love for the outdoors and especially loved to fish. Whether fishing from a boat, a kayak, or the shore, he was happiest with a fishing line in the water. He enjoyed sharing his love of fishing with many of his friends, creating lasting memories and friendships along the way.

Mac and his beloved wife, Anne, treasured the time they spent with Rick and Vick in West Virginia, where Mac especially enjoyed hunting with his buddy, Rick. He also loved camping and spent many happy hours surrounded by friends and family around a good campfire. These outdoor adventures and gatherings were a special part of his life, bringing together the people he loved and creating memories that will be treasured for years to come.

One of the most significant turning points in Mac’s life came in 1986, when he and Anne became Christians and experienced a life-changing transformation through their faith. Their commitment to Christ became the foundation of their lives and inspired them to serve others in meaningful ways.

Together, Mac and Anne participated in mission work in Ukraine and Haiti and were actively involved in many areas of their church. They were very involved with the youth of their church, providing transportation to church for numerous children in their community and serving as Sunday school teachers. They also became foster parents and provided respite care for many children, helping to provide them with stability, love and a Christian environment. In recent years, they’ve visited assisted living facilities with a group of young singers to share the gift of music with the residents, bringing joy, fellowship, and encouragement to those they visited. Their dedication to serving others reflected their shared faith and their desire to make a difference in the lives of those around them.

His favorite Bible verse was John 3:16, a reflection of the faith that became the foundation of his life. One of his favorite hymns was “He Hideth My Soul,” a cherished expression of the comfort and peace he found in his relationship with Christ.

Mac will be deeply missed by his beloved family, dear friends, and cherished church family. Though his earthly journey has ended, the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the faith he lived will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

He will be forever loved, lovingly remembered, and held in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, caregivers, and especially their beloved church family at Suncoast Baptist who surrounded Mac and Anne with love, prayers, encouragement, and support throughout his illness. Your kindness, generosity, thoughtful gestures, and willingness to walk alongside them during this difficult journey meant more than words can express. You brought comfort in difficult moments and reminded them of the beautiful gift of Christian fellowship and the love of a caring community. Anne, along with the family, will always be grateful for each of you and the many ways you have shown your love and compassion.