Jerry "Digger" Wayne O'Dell

July 8, 1940 – April 15, 2022

Jerry Wayne O’Dell of Coeburn, Virginia passed away at the age of 81 peacefully in his home in Keller Texas on Friday, April 18, 2022, In his favorite room of his house (the sunroom) He was surrounded by his loved ones and his loyal dog Bella.

Born on July 8, 1940 in Coeburn, Virginia to Sam and Virginia O’Dell. Jerry was Baptized at the age of twelve at the First Baptist Church of Coeburn. He quit school in the 11th grade (one week before his 17th birthday) in 1957, to join the United States Marines. He became a Helicopter Crew Chief in the Marine Corp at the age of 20. Served three tours in Vietnam, received a battlefield commission, retiring as a Captain in 1978.

He then moved to Ft Worth Texas and started his new career as a warranty administrator at Bell Helicopter and traveled all over the world and retiring from Bell in 1992.

He finished out his working career as an armored guard for Brinks and Diamond group.

Jerry had a real passion for fishing!! In his later years he was able to travel to Alaska to fish and absolutely fell in love with Alaska. After that first trip there was no stopping him. He continued to travel to Alaska for several years to fish. Lots of happy times, beautiful memories, relaxing moments and wonderful friendships were made on his many trips. Not to mentions tons of amazing fish were caught and many fish stories were created and will be told for years to come.

Jerry is survived by his wife Suelynn O’Dell of 33 years; her sons, Richie and Rusty Havener;

his daughters, Lizbeth (Rod) Shotwell, Lisa O’Dell; his sister Martha (Johnny) Stout;

Ron Phillips who he loved like his son.

7 Grandchildren and 7 Great Grandchildren, a niece and two nephews.

A celebration of life for Jerry will be held Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 10:00 AM, Keller's Old Town Funeral Home. Following the celebration of life will be a committal service, 1:15 PM at Dallas Ft Worth National Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kellersoldtownfuneralhome.com for the O'Dell family.