Charles "Digger" O'Dell

Charles was a proud Veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served honorably as a Staff Sergeant in critical supply chain management during the Vietnam War. He was a graduate of Rule High Class of 1963 and East Tennessee State University class of 1972.

A devoted member of Wallace Memorial Baptist Church, Charles faithfully served as a teacher, deacon, and steadfast follower of Christ. His faith guided every part of his life, and his example of service and love left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Professionally, Charles worked for many years in business consulting, lending his expertise to organizations such as TVA, SAIC, Doctors Management, and The Graham Corporation. His work ethic, integrity, and leadership were admired by colleagues and clients alike.

Charles was preceded in death by his loving parents, Oscar and Mossie England O’Dell, and his brother, James “Jim” O’Dell.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Sylvia “Dolly” Sharpe O’Dell; daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Chris Moore; son and daughter-in-law, Adam and Laura Level O’Dell; and his three beloved granddaughters, Morgan O’Dell, Mary Beth Moore, and Addison O’Dell, who were the pride and joy of his life.

He is also survived by his cherished sister-in-law Beverly Keith O’Dell; nieces and nephews, Andi and Doug Powell, Nick and Melani Vaught, Jeremy and Lesleigh O’Dell, Allison O’Dell Burnette, and Ben and Natalie O’Dell; as well as nine great-nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Charles was blessed with many lifelong friends, especially his dear Sunday School class at Wallace Memorial Baptist Church.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at The Point at Lifesprings, where Charles and Sylvia have resided for the past 18 months.

Receiving of Friends will be held Monday, October 20, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, with a Celebration of Life service to follow at 7:00 PM at Wallace Memorial Baptist Church, 701 Merchant Drive, Knoxville, TN 37912. Services will be officiated by Rev. Chris Moore, Dr. James McCluskey, and Rev. Kent Williams.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Building Fund at Wallace Memorial Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Madisonville, or the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention in Charles’s memory.