John Edward Southard

1944 - 2022

ODESSA - John Edward Southard, 77, of Odessa, passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2022 in Midland. He was born December 30, 1944 in Oklahoma City, OK to the late Dorothy (Krager) and Ross Southard.

He enjoyed life. Whether it was sports like skiing, golfing and football or, in his younger days, racing Corvettes up Pike's Peak, he lived life to the fullest. His official occupation was oilfield sales, but he was a jack-of-all-trades. He could fix just about anything and was ready to help anyone. As a typical salesman, he never met a stranger. John talked to everyone - about anything! He loved his family and friends, but his heart was for the Lord. He was a proud member of Sherwood Baptist in Odessa where he served on advisory boards and taught Sunday school. Although we are sad, John would want us to rejoice that he is in Jesus' arms and reunited with his parents, Carolyn and Uncle Scotty.

John is survived by his son, Brian Keith Middlebrook and wife Julie of Midland; daughter, Heather Richardson and husband Shawn of Mustang, OK; brother, Chris Southard and wife Wanda of Tulsa, OK; sister, Peggy Southard of Oklahoma City, OK; and five grandchildren, Tyler Bumgarner and wife Ashlee, Emma Middlebrook, Olivia Bumgarner and Cole Middlebrook.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Southard and his parents, Ross and Dorothy Southard.

The family will receive friends for visitation Saturday, September 17, 2022 from 4-8 PM at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at the funeral home on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at 2 PM with Pastor Harry Irwin officiating. Burial will be held privately by the family at Sunset Memorial Gardens.