Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Sylvia Odom Obituary
Passed away April 11, 2016 at age 84 after a long illness. Lived a very full life as an elementary school teacher for over 30 years in the Highline School District. She worked to end homelessness as a founding member of the Plymouth Housing group and served as a board member 1980-1994. She was an active member at Plymouth Congregational church and served as a volunteer in many other organizations. Celebration of life services while be held at Plymouth Congregational Church on Tuesday, April 19, at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be designated to Plymouth Housing Group, Attn: Resource Development -- 2113 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sylvia Odom
Sponsored by The Family.
Tiana Mays
October 25, 2023
Mrs. Odom was my first grade teacher and she was that teacher that made the difference in my life. She looked out for me and my family. Love you Mrs Odom and Thank you
Stephanie Ward
July 30, 2018
Mrs. Odom, You still impact my life today and are often in my thoughts. I just found out you passed away, and I am sorry I didn't get to greet you once more. I hope you knew how much you meant to me, in a very troubled part of my life, being in your classroom was a blessing and it will be with me always. You are and will always be missed.
Toni Lysen
April 18, 2017
I met Sylvia when I taught school at Lake Burien Elementary in 1968-69. We would see each other and reconnect over the years at Democratic Party and other political events. I visited with her at Horizon House while my husband was attending a class there. She was always so warm, interested in what my life was like and had a quiet elegance about her. I loved the twinkle in her eyes.
Steve Lockett
April 18, 2016
Sylvia was my first grade teacher in 1960. Over the years we stayed in touch through my parents. She was my first patient after i came out of dental school in 1981 and the office kept it a surprise. I had the chance to volunteer in her class room and aided her with her giving. My memories of her as her student and as a volunteer will always be one of love, caring and guiding children in their early years. Thank you Mrs. Odom for your grace and and unconditional love to me and all the children's lives you have touched.
Rachael and Phillip Levine
April 18, 2016
Sylvia was a friend to her students, including me. I had the privilege of being placed in her classroom for my student teaching experience. She was the most gifted teacher I ever observed as she confidently involved her students in seeing the world. (We "blasted off" that fall in a simulated rocket she had constructed in one corner of the room!)
With her quietly fierce sense of justice, she didn't hesitate to wear a black armband as we protested the war in Vietnam. She walked the walk where ever it took her..including protests at Westlake. How like Sylvia to take a direct and effective approach to homelessness.
I visited her earlier this year in her cherished home in Horizon House. She spoke also of the support of her Plymouth congregation when she lost her son, Mel. She lovingly spoke of her daughter Valerie.
Although I was not an active part of Sylvia's life, the memories I have of her will remain as blessings.
Greg Abell
April 18, 2016
She was SO LOVED by those of us who were blessed to have her launch us on our path of education. She loved us well and there have been many shared conversations and memories of the impact she had on our lives.
Pam Berger
April 17, 2016
Students loved her! And, knew that she loved them, too. With a tender heart, infectious smile and giggle, Sylvia touched the lives of many. She was a gift to all who knew her.
Ron Babcock
April 17, 2016
My favorite teacher ever. 1958. First grade at Lake Burien Elementary.
She was an amazing woman.
Ron Babcock, Mesa AZ
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
Make a Donation
in Sylvia Odom's name
Memorial Events
for Sylvia Odom
How to support Sylvia's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Sylvia Odom's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
