Mary Idell Selmon

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Mary Idell Selmon, a woman of grace, strength, and unwavering devotion. Mary, 92, of Odessa, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love that spans generations.

Born in Merkel, Texas, on November 28, 1932, to Imogene Layla Gullian Suber and Gilbert Hilton Suber, Mary carried the warmth and resilience of her family’s roots throughout her life. She graduated from Merkel High School and pursued her education at Odessa College, earning her associate degree.

It was fate—and a pair of roller skates—that led her to the love of her life, Charles “Freddy” Selmon. Their love story began on the dance floor, gliding together into a lifetime of memories. They married on September 14, 1951, embarking on a journey that spanned 65 beautiful years. In 1960, they made Odessa their home, where Mary dedicated herself to a distinguished 31-year career with Southwestern Bell, rising through the ranks from switchboard operator to management.

Alongside her career, Mary was a devoted member of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), advocating for her colleagues with the same dedication she gave to everything in life. Even in retirement, she continued serving her community, volunteering for 15 years with ECISD in the Panther Den, where she left a lasting impact on the students and staff she so deeply cared for.

Mary’s entrepreneurial spirit shined as she and her late husband, Freddy, proudly owned and operated along their only daughter Pam, Double Eagle Pawn Shop in Odessa for many years. Their passion for the business extended beyond the shop as they traveled across the state, setting up at gun shows for over 20 years. They became a cherished part of the gun show community, forming friendships and memories at every event they attended. After decades of dedication, Mary finally retired from the circuit in 2015, closing a chapter filled with adventure and camaraderie.

Her servant’s heart extended beyond work and family—she and Freddy were both proud members of the Shriner’s and Eastern Star, where they served faithfully together.

Mary was a woman of quiet elegance and deep love. She found joy in life’s simplest pleasures—bowling, dancing, and the laughter of family gathered around her. She and Freddy could often be found dancing five to six nights a week, a rhythm of love that never faded. She was a devoted wife, mother, Mema, and friend, embracing everyone with open arms and a kind heart.

She leaves behind a family who adored her:

• Daughter: Pam Rimer and husband Larry

• Granddaughter: Christy Graham

• Great-grandchildren: Tiffany Elrod and Nathan, Jarred Graham and Ashley

• Great-great-grandchildren: Trystin Elrod, Jarred Graham, Braxten Graham, Braden Graham, Olivia

Graham and Lucy Graham

She is now reunited in heaven with her beloved husband Charles “Freddy” Selmon, her parents Imogene and Gilbert Suber, her brother G.H. Suber, and her baby sister Ruby Jo.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find peace knowing she is dancing once again, this time with Freddy, beneath the golden light of eternity. Her love will continue to echo through the lives of those she touched, a lasting reminder that true grace never fades.

Mema, you were the finest of women, and your legacy will forever be carried in our hearts.

A visitation for Mary will be held Monday, March 31, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Odessa Funeral Home, 1700 North Jackson, Odessa, TX 79761. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM, 1700 North Jackson, Odessa, TX 79761. A committal service & burial will occur Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Rosehill Cemetery, 201 Edwards St, Merkel, TX 79536.

Serving as Pallbearers are Larry Rimer, Nathan Penney, Jarred Graham, Trystian Elrod, Braxten Graham Jarred N. Graham, and Tracy Elrod.