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 carried himself with patience and a kind-hearted spirit, offering thoughtful guidance with the calm wisdom of someone who understood that character is proven in everyday moments.

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.

Odell attended St. Louis Community College, where he studied drafting and computer science. He devoted 20 years of service to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory as a Computer Programmer, bringing diligence and care to work that demanded both precision and perseverance. Later in life, he also pursued real estate and his passion for acting, earning an acting award. Throughout his life, he answered duty with steadfast commitment, earning the respect of those who knew him through his consistent reliability and principled nature.

Beyond his professional life, Odell’s interests reflected a man who appreciated both discipline and joy. He enjoyed sports and played in Minor League Baseball, approaching the game with the same persistence and steady resolve that shaped the rest of his life. He 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.

Odell was preceded in death by his mother, Bernice Hodges, and his father, Leroy McQueen.

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

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