Dorthey Joyce O'Dell

Celebrating the Life of Dorthey Joyce O'Dell

Surrounded by the family she cherished and the love she so freely gave, Dorthey "Joyce" O'Dell passed away on July 11, 2026.

Family was the absolute center of Joyce’s life. In 1957, she married the love of her life, Elmer L. O'Dell. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising two children and later welcoming three grandchildren who became her ultimate pride and joy. Joyce had a rare gift for hospitality; she made every gathering feel like home, ensuring that family, friends, and newcomers alike always felt an immediate sense of belonging and warmth. Her favorite days were those spent surrounded by loved ones—sharing meals, telling stories, enjoying the great outdoors while camping, or sitting around the table for a lively card match, board game, or puzzle.

A woman of deep and enduring faith, Joyce translated her beliefs into lifelong action. She possessed a profound dedication to helping others through their darkest hours and brightest days. This spirit of service shone brightly through her volunteer work, where she offered a lifeline to those in crisis by answering the phones for the Thurston County suicide hotline and provided a safe haven for survivors at a local domestic violence shelter.

Joyce leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering grace. She is survived by her devoted children, Donna Kennish and Frank O'Dell and their spouses Dick Kennish and Lori O’Dell; her beloved grandchildren, Jeff Kennish, Daniel Kennish, and Trevin O'Dell; and her dear brothers, Ed Anderson and Jerry Anderson. The family takes immense comfort in knowing that Joyce is now peacefully reunited with the loved ones who passed before her.

Service Details

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 31, 2026, at 1:00 PM at: Mills & Mills Funeral Home 5725 Littlerock Rd SW, Tumwater, WA 98512

Guests are warmly invited to join the family in sharing memories and celebrating a life beautifully lived.

Contributions & Thanks

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society Relay for Life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Sequoia Assisted Living and Hospice for their incredibly compassionate care during Joyce's final days.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mills & Mills Funeral Home, where online condolences and memories may be shared on her memorial page.

Joyce’s profound faith, gentle kindness, and fierce love for her family will never be forgotten. She lives on in the countless hearts she touched.