Emelynn Odom

Emelynn Carlisle Odom, 82, of Valdosta, Georgia, entered her eternal home on September 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. 

Born on May 27, 1943, in Coral Gables, Florida, Emelynn was the daughter of the late Judge Edwin A. Carlisle and Annie Laurie Rentz Carlisle. At a young age, she moved with her family to Cairo, Georgia, where she grew up and proudly called home. A 1961 graduate of Cairo High School, she continued her education at Wesleyan College in Macon and Birdwood Junior College (now Thomas University) in Thomasville before earning her Bachelor of Science degree from Valdosta State College (University). 

Throughout her career, Emelynn dedicated herself to serving others. She began as an elementary school teacher in Jacksonville, Florida, later teaching in Atlanta and Valdosta. She also held several positions with Southern Company in Atlanta and later served as Church Hostess at Norcross First United Methodist Church. 

Faith was a cornerstone of Emelynn’s life. She was a devoted member of Cairo First United Methodist Church, Norcross First United Methodist Church, and Park Avenue Church in Valdosta, where she faithfully served in many roles, including as Bazaar Chair. 

Emelynn’s love for family and friends was unwavering. She cherished every gathering, kept up with the lives of those she loved, and brought joy and energy wherever she went. Her warm, positive spirit and genuine care for others left an indelible mark on all who knew her. 

She is survived by her children, Lynn Browning (Steve) of Hahira, GA, and Christopher Odom of Thomasville, GA; grandchildren, Benjamin Browning, Lindsey Browning, and Brooks Browning of Hahira, GA; Lake Odom, Carson Odom (Logan), and Lawson Odom of Thomasville, GA; and extended family, Tad David (Jill), John Miller David, and Fenner David of Tallahassee, FL; Parrish David (Kim) and Annie Laurie David of Sandersville, GA; Drew David (Ashley) and Ramsey David of Dacula, GA; and Daniel David (Addie) and Brooks David of Hoschton, GA. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Judge and Mrs. Edwin A. Carlisle; her husband, Carl Odom; her beloved sister, Laurie Conradi; and her brother, Edwin Ansley Carlisle, Jr. She also leaves behind countless dear friends and an extended family who will continue to treasure her memory.

Funeral services will be held at Park Avenue Church in Valdosta on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at McLane Riverview Memorial Gardens, Valdosta. 

Serving as pallbearers will be Benjamin Browning, Brooks Browning, Lawson Odom, Daniel David, John Miller David, and Fenner David.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home