Odessa Evelyn Gravley, née Dover, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2024, in Cartersville, GA, at the age of 92. Born on August 31, 1931, in Kingston, GA, she was a cherished figure in her community and beloved by many.
Odessa was known for her exceptional culinary skills, often seen creating sumptuous meals for her family and the children she cared for. Her Sunday morning breakfasts, featuring biscuits, gravy, grits, eggs, and an assortment of breakfast meats, were legendary. These meals were more than just nourishment; they were a foundation for lifelong memories and fellowship.
Beyond her kitchen, Odessa was a dedicated caretaker, providing a safe and loving environment for many children over the years. Her selflessness extended to all aspects of her life, including her marriages. She was married to her first love, J.C. Gravley, for 51 years until his passing, and later found companionship and happiness with a lifelong friend, Charles Holbrook, until his passing in 2019.
Odessa's personal joys included visits to the Smoky Mountains and Daytona Beach, FL, and she could often be found enjoying a Saturday night at the shopping mall. She loved gospel music and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was a member of Northside Methodist Church.
She is survived by her son, Jerry (Sylvia) Gravley; daughter, Joy (Allan) Early; grandchildren, Duane (Becky) Gravley, Lesley (Jay) Slaughter, Kristen (Richard) Kearney, and Matthew Early (fiancée Tabitha Lovell); and great-grandchildren, Wes, Avery, Shelby Jo, Savannah, Noah, Evie, Mellie, and Michelle. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim and Kate Dover; late husband, J.C. Gravley; late husband, Charles Holbrook; son Calvin Gravley; and all of her sisters and brothers, George, Henry, Clifford, William, Walter, and Essie.
Odessa's life was marked by love, care, and an unwavering commitment to her family and those she took under her wing. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and were touched by her generosity and spirit.
The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, July 8th at Owen Funeral home in Cartersville, GA. The family will receive friends starting at noon. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers are Duane and Wes Gravley, Jay Slaughter, Richard and Noah Kearney, and Matthew Early.
Please visit www.owenfunerals.com to leave online condolences for the family. Owen Funeral Home 12 Collins Dr. Cartersville, GA is honored to serve the Gravley family.
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