NEWTON, KANSAS

JAMES W. ODOM, 'JIM' , 70, was called home to the Lord on Saturday, January 12, 2019. Jim was born in Wichita, Kansas to J.D. and Marjorie (Huey) Odom on July 28, 1948. He grew up mostly in Wichita and Newton, Kansas before enlisting in the Army in 1968. Jim was part of the infantry unit and served proudly during Vietnam. While there, Jim was a sharp shooter, 2 ^nd class gunner, and marksman. He finished his tour May 28, 1970 and continued serving his country in the Army Reserves until 1974. He welcomed daughter, Vanessa Odom Busby during the last year of his military career. Jim worked with his hands most of his life and was an excellent carpenter. He spent several years in Florida as a supervisor at Golden Flame Furniture, which was owned by his younger brother, Steve. Jim moved back to Kansas in the mid-2000s and enjoyed retirement spending hours in his woodshop, driving his prized Corvette, spoiling his puppies, and loving his family. His survivors include Vanessa of Wellington, KS; granddaughters Jessica Busby of Alford, FL., and Jamie Busby of Wellington, KS; grandson Jase Busby of Alford; brothers Danny Odom of Baton Rouge, LA., Steve Odom of Alford, and Tony (Anita) Odom of Hartford, AL; sister Teresa (Bobby) Fountain of Hartford; aunt Danny Moyer of Wichita; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Linda Pursley.

Visitation, Tuesday, January 22 from 5-7 pm and A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, January 23, 10:30 am, both at Baker Funeral Home, Valley Center, Kansas. with a processional to Resthaven Gardens of Memory in Wichita, for military honors at graveside. Memorials may be designated in his memory to The Church of God of the Firstborn, 125 E. 10th, Newton, Ks 67114. Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com