Ruth Odom

Ruth B. Odom NORFOLK - On July 7, 1933, Ruth Delores Barnes Odom was born to Ruth and James Barnes in Norfolk County, Virginia. Ruth would become affectionately known as "Sister." A most beautiful woman, little did she know she would become a cornerstone of strength for herself, her family, and so very many others. Staying as close as she could with phone calls and constant mention, Sister never forgot where she came from or the ones thriving there. Her memories and thoughts always took her to her children, siblings and family. Predeceased by husband, Haywood Odom and son, Harold Lee Barnes, Sister continues to be survived by six sons: Willie and Farah "Munsy," Juny Odom, Bryant Odom, Jeffery and Renae Odom, Ricky "Skeeter" Odom, Derrick Odom. Also she is survived by four daughters, Juliette "Bookie" and Rodney Cooke, Paulette and fiance Daman -Davis, Pamela and Hubert Short, Angela and Calvin Burke; 38 great- and 17 great-great-grandchildren. Any given day Sister could be seen lending a most helpful hand to family and friends. In Oakleaf Forest since 1974, Sister has mothered and fed her nieces and nephews on a yearly basis also managing to curb hunger in neighboring children as well as adults. Whatever you did, she was there for you and never said no. In her own words, is: "If you need me you know I am here for you." She always looked out for everyone! An open door policy she kept, making it hard for some child cousins to distinguish neighbors, for she would pass plates of food to so many each day. There are personal memories we all share; allow yourself to think of them and smile, also let it keep us while we heal. A service was held Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at Bethany Baptist Church. The family would like to express their appreciation to Christopher Wilson and Hale Funeral Home, Dr. Jake Manley and Bethany Baptist Church, and those who expressed their sympathy.