Robert J. O'Dea

Robert John O'Dea (or Bobbo to many), 76, of Plainville, CT, died unexpectedly, with his wife and daughter by his side, on November 14, 2025. Bob (which he'd like you to know is spelled the same way frontwards or backwards) was a Plainville lifer who loved his central Connecticut community. He took a quiet pride in doing the unsung jobs every community needs done: working as a funeral director, volunteering as a Plainville firefighter for 51 years, refereeing soccer and basketball games across the state, and most recently serving as President of the Plainville Campgrounds. His favorite role, one he absolutely adored, was being on the sideline of almost every UCONN basketball home game for the past 23 years as the official scorer.
Bob is survived by his wife of 51 years, Susan; his children Beth and Tom (and wife Ariane); his grandchildren Alice Kate, Kameron, and Sylvie; and his sister Kathy. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Shirley O'Dea.
Bob often proclaimed things "tremendous" - whether it was an event, a personal accomplishment, or his grandkids' artwork. But Bob himself was tremendous. Always eager to be involved and stay busy, and wanting to be the guy you could always rely on, Bob touched countless lives with his never-ending advice, kind words, and willingness to lend a helping hand. His special talent was connecting with others, aided by a quick wit and a solid inventory of Dad jokes like "Is that with my senior discount?"
Though he loved being on the move, he never seemed to long for "more." Bob found deep happiness in the familiar rhythm of Plainville life and the everyday interactions with friendly faces everywhere he went. He also loved showing people around his favorite places and sharing his favorite traditions. Being part of a big event energized him, and there are no bigger events than the Indy 500. He cherished sharing Indy with the people he loved, especially the first-timers, and never more than with his grandson Kam.
Friends may call at Bailey Funeral Home, 48 Broad Street in Plainville, CT, on Thursday, November 20th from 3 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 94 Broad St., Plainville, on Friday, November 21st at 10 a.m. All are kindly asked to meet directly at church. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Plainville Fire Department or a youth soccer program of your choice.
Bob always told us "do your best!" He never doubted we could, and he always truly believed that our best was just the right amount. Help us keep his memory alive by always believing in your own best.
Go to bobodea.com for details on services and to share your memories of Bob. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert, please visit our floral store.