John Lindsey "Big O" Odom

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of John Lindsey Odom, a beloved son and devoted brother who left us on August 21, 2025, at the age of 39. Lindsey was born on November 07, 1985, in Lafayette, Louisiana to Karen Fontenot and John Richard Odom.

Lindsey was a man of deep character, quiet strength, and sharp wit. A lifelong resident of South Louisiana, he found joy in the outdoors - hunting and fishing with his father, brother, uncles, cousins, and friends. He had a natural gift with his hands, working as a masterful carpenter and machinist. If it could be built, fixed, or figured out, he could do it. His eye for detail was unmatched and his curiosity ran deep. He was also a self-taught guitar player, picking up melodies the way he picked up everything in life: with quiet intensity and fierce independence.

To those who knew him best, he was more than talented - he was unforgettable. His sense of humor was legendary: dry, clever, and often delivered in a single word, sound, or perfectly timed look. He had a way of diffusing tension with a joke or a smile, always bringing levity when it was needed most.

He was profoundly kind. He gave to others even when he had little, and he wasn’t one to judge or speak poorly of others. In a group, he was often quiet - so when he did speak, you knew he meant it. One-on-one conversations with him were never shallow. He loved to read about history, and was the kind of person who made you think. He never accepted things at face value - he wanted to know, to understand.

He fought bile duct cancer with a strength that defied the odds - 22 months with a condition few survive more than a few months. He never once complained. Even in his final days, though his body was failing, he remained fully present - strong, sharp, and still himself.

To say he will be missed doesn’t come close. He leaves behind not just memories, but wisdom, laughter, and love that will stay with those who knew him forever.

Lindsey is survived by his parents, Karen and John Odom; his siblings, Abbie Odom and Ian Odom; his maternal grandmother, Hassa Marie Bourque Fontenot; and countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Lenus Fontenot and his paternal grandparents, Emily and Ronald Odom.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Ville Platte, Louisiana - the birthplace of both his parents. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. All who knew Lindsey or his family are invited to gather and share stories, laughter, and memories that honor Lindsey’s spirit and provide support and comfort to his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Miles Perret Cancer Services in Lindsey’s memory.