Odell Hodges

A man of steady purpose and quiet strength. Odell built a life marked by hard work, loyalty, and a generosity that asked for nothing in return. He attended St. Louis Community College, where he studied drafting and computer science.

Odell honorably served his country in the U.S. Army (Vietnam War, Communications Specialist) stationed in East Da Nang. After completing his military service, he established a distinguished civilian career in information technology. He initially worked as a computer operator at Blue Cross of St. Louis before moving to California to serve as a Lead Computer Operator and Supervisor for government operations. During his tenure overseeing computational operations for NASA laboratory planetary research, Odell and his team earned Top Clearance NASA honors and received a commendation plaque for their work supporting missions to Uranus.

In 1985, Odell met the love of his life, Lubertha, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, and cherished memories. They enjoyed traveling together, spending time side by side, and were known for their sweet tradition of dressing alike. Their love and companionship remained strong throughout their 35 years of marriage. Odell and Lubertha were also members of New Revelation Baptist Church, where he served his church and community as an ordained deacon.

Later in life, he also pursued real estate and his passion for acting, earning an acting award. Odell was also a character actor in several mainstream movies, a distinctive chapter that showcased his willingness to step into new roles and contribute his presence with quiet confidence.

He will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection for the patient’s steadiness he brought to those around him, for the kindness he extended without hesitation, and for the wise, generous way he lived his life.

Odell was preceded in death by his mother, Bernice Hodges, and his father, Leroy McQueen, his brother Percy Dobbins and his sister, Athena Clayborn.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lubertha McCready-Hodges; his brothers, Ulysses Clayborn and Daniel Clayborn; his daughters, Patricia Simpson, Barbara Wright, Marilyn Jones, and Dawn Hodges; his grandchildren, Dominique Simpson, Sherman Simpson Jr., Sakeetra Mims, and Jimmy Awolesi Jr; his godson, Zayden Zepeda and a host of extended family members, and cherished friends.