John Kendall O'Dell

John Kendall O'Dell
December 23, 1940 – March 14, 2026.

Memorial services for John Kendall O'Dell will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2026 at the First Methodist Church in Ada, Rev. Brian Matthews will officiate.

John Kendall O'Dell, born December 23, 1940, in Ardmore, Oklahoma to John Kelsie, Jr. and Charlyne O'Dell, passed away on March 14, 2026 in Ada, Oklahoma.

He spent his early years growing up in Elk City, Oklahoma, where he was active in baseball, basketball, football and golf. His participation in athletics formed friendships that lasted for the rest of his life, and the humor, resilience, and strong family ties that would shape the remainder of his life had their foundation in his Elk City upbringing.

As a young adult, John proudly served in the United States Army Reserves.

John received his BA in Education from Southwestern and his Masters of Administration from OSU.

He later dedicated much of his professional life to 40 years in education and administration in both Oklahoma and Texas. Over the years he influenced and encouraged countless young people, leaving a lasting impression on the students whose lives he helped shape.

John was a passionate University of Oklahoma football fan and also loved watching college basketball. Whether cheering on his teams or spending time with family, he enjoyed the simple moments that brought people together.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 49 years, Connie O'Dell, and children:

· Dr. Jennifer O'Dell of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

· Jane O'Dell of Atlanta, Georgia

· Joy E. Davis of Albuquerque, New Mexico

· Jason O'Dell of Wittlich, Germany.

He is also survived by five grandchildren, one great-grandchild, numerous nieces and nephews and cousins.

John is also survived by his sister Linda Smalley of Norman and his sister-in-law Sandra Green of Ada. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jana Jackson Biggs.

Growing up as the only boy in a house full of sisters, John never passed up the opportunity to tease them and give them a hard time-something they would say he did with great enthusiasm.

John will be remembered for his dedication to education, his love of family, his loyalty to Oklahoma sports, and the quiet but meaningful influence he had on the many young people who passed through his classroom. His legacy lives on in the family

he loved and the lives he helped shape.

The family is very appreciative of the kindness and care shown by the staff & nurses from Centric Home Health & Hospice and McCortney Family In-Home Care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Elk City Education Foundation.