Shirley B. Odin

Shirley B. Odin, 93, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on March 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of the family to whom she devoted her life. Formerly of Buffalo, New York, and later Florida, Shirley’s life was defined by her deep commitment to education, her quiet creativity, and, above all, her unwavering devotion to her family.

Born on November 19, 1932, in Buffalo, Shirley was the daughter of Benjamin and Rose (Fineman) Berkoff. She built her life in the city she loved, where she met and married her husband, Eugene Odin, on September 2, 1951. Together, they shared nearly seven decades of marriage, partnership, and family before his passing in 2020.

Shirley pursued her passion for learning by earning a master’s degree in education, going on to shape young minds as a reading teacher in Buffalo for many years. She believed deeply in the power of literacy—a belief so central to who she was that she earned the affectionate nickname “Riffie,” short for “Reading Is Fundamental.” Books were her constant companions, and she found joy in both the stories she read and the ones she helped others discover.

In retirement, Shirley and Eugene embraced a new chapter in Florida, enjoying the warmth and a slower pace of life, before eventually settling in Springfield to be closer to their family. Wherever she lived, Shirley created a home filled with warmth, care, and quiet traditions. She found simple happiness in knitting and took pride in creating things by hand, but nothing brought her more joy than time spent with those she loved.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene; her parents; and her brothers, Dr. Herbert Berkoff and Seymour Berkoff.

She leaves behind a family who will carry forward her legacy of love and devotion: her son, Dr. Lanny (Diana) Odin of Springfield; her daughter, Shelly Hallen of Boca Raton, Florida; her cherished grandchildren, Dr. Rachel Odin (fiancé Austin Malpede), Natalie Odin, Alixandra Cossette (Brendan), and Brett Hallen; and her adored great-grandchildren, Max and Elina Cossette. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Wendy Berkoff and Vivienne Roseby, along with several nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

A private family service will be held to honor her life.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Shirley are invited to make a contribution to St. Martin DePorres Food Pantry in Springfield, a reflection of her lifelong generosity and care for others.

Shirley’s life was a quiet testament to love, learning, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.