Odelia Ann (Jackson) Woods passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Beavercreek, Ohio, at the age of 66. Born on December 19, 1959, in Brownsville, Tennessee, and raised in Gary, Indiana, Odelia lived a life defined by strength, intelligence, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Odelia began her adult life in Gary, Indiana, where she met her late ex-husband, Charles Woods (deceased), and together they started a life and built a family. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in Gary, Indiana, as part of the Class of 1977. After high school, Odelia relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she began the career journey that would become one of the most defining parts of her life.
She believed deeply in education, responsibility, and doing things the right way. Odelia earned her degree in accounting from Vincennes University, a milestone she was proud of and one that reflected her commitment to self-improvement and lifelong learning.
Odelia devoted many years of her life to serving the federal government, working in financial operations that required accuracy, integrity, and trust. She later served as a Senior Financial Analyst, carrying tremendous responsibility and handling it with confidence, precision, and quiet excellence. Her work was important, meaningful, and often unseen, but it mattered greatly. Those who worked with her respected her intelligence, her work ethic, and her ability to solve complex problems with care and determination.
Beyond her professional success, Odelia was a natural leader. She opened doors for others both figuratively and literally, even when her efforts were not always appreciated. She was appreciated by many and taken for granted by some, but she never allowed that to change who she was. She continued to give, to support, and to uplift others because that was her heart. She opened her home to family, allowed loved ones to stay with her, and showed generosity that went far beyond obligation.
Odelia was a devoted mother to her daughters, Charlena Woods, Iesha Woods, and Olivia Woods. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Cameron Carter, Elijah Brazley, and Andreus Walker. Her family was her heart and her greatest pride. She dedicated her life to nurturing, protecting, and preparing them for a bright future.
Outside of work and family, Odelia found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved traveling with her family and creating beautiful memories with her grandchildren. She had a passion for gardening and home projects, always beautifying her space and making her home a place of warmth and love. She enjoyed Pilates and long walks with her beloved dog, Cojack, while remaining the backbone of the family she created.
Odelia was preceded in death by her beloved father, Charlie B. Jackson; her mother, Ella Marie (Mabon) Jackson; and her brother, Charlie T. Jackson. Their memory remains close to the hearts of all who love them.
Odelia will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her contagious laugh, her sharp mind, and the honest love she gave to everyone who crossed her path. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and all the lives she touched with her strength, kindness, and unwavering spirit.
All Services January 17, 2026, at Faith Tabernacle Deliverance Church, located at 400 E. 35th Avenue, Gary, Indiana.
Wake 9:30 a.m. Funeral Service 11:00 a.m. Burial Evergreen Memorial Cemetery Hobart,In.
Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support as we come together to celebrate her life.
Professional Services Rendered by Powell Coleman Funeral Home.
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