Mr. John "PawPaw" Curtis O'Dell

John Curtis O’Dell, lovingly known as “PawPaw” Curtis, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, at 3:56 a.m., at the age of 87. Born on January 22, 1939, in Gadsden, Alabama, Curtis was a lifelong resident of Etowah County and a devoted servant to his community, his church, and most importantly, his family. Curtis dedicated much of his career to the propane gas industry, beginning his work with Coosa Gas and later becoming a partner in Blue Star Gas. His commitment to public service led him to serve as an Etowah County Commissioner from 1977 to 1984. He continued his service with Etowah County Solid Waste, where he eventually retired, and later completed his working years with City of Gadsden Transportation Services. A man of unwavering faith, Curtis was a member of Fairview Baptist Church. He lived his life with the assurance of his eternal home, and his family finds comfort knowing he has entered the gates of Heaven, reunited with loved ones who preceded him in death. Curtis is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Lee O’Dell; his children, Sammy (Annette) O’Dell, Jennifer Kelly, and Scott (Sandy) O’Dell; and his cherished grandchildren, Bailey (Zack) Mack, Baylen (Holly) Clough, Britton (Hunter) Edwards, Will O’Dell, Matt O’Dell, Emilee O’Dell, and Spencer Kelly. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Anslee Mack, Evan Mack, Callahan Clough, Hayes Edwards, Holden Edwards, and Chase Clough. He is further survived by his siblings, Jean Bearden, Mary Elliott, Gerald O’Dell, and Mike O’Dell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Max O’Dell and Zonie O’Dell; his grandson, Samuel Blake O’Dell; and his brothers, Samuel O’Dell Jr. and Pete O’Dell. Curtis will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a man who was always there when he was needed—no matter the circumstance. His strength, faith, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Alabama Hospice for their compassionate care, and to Bryan Holbrooks and the team at Village Chapel for their support and guidance during this time. Funeral services will be 3pm Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Fairview Baptist Church, 5295 Fairview Road Gadsden, Al 35904. Visitation at Fairview Baptist Church will be from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. Graveside to follow at Fairview cemetery. Village Chapel Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Service will be officiated by Brother Gary Williams and Brother Sammy O’Dell. Serving as pallbearers are Sammy O’Dell, Scott O’Dell, Baylen Clough, Will O’Dell, Matt O’Dell, Zack Mack, and Hunter Edwards. Honorary pallbearers include Blake O’Dell, Gerald O’Dell, Mike O’Dell, Dale Anderson and Evan Mack. Though Curtis is no longer with us in body, his legacy of faith, love, and dedication lives on. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Mr. John "PawPaw" Curtis O'Dell

January 22, 1939 - April 21, 2026