James W Odom

James "Jim" Odom

Obituary

James W. 'Jim' Odom, 70, was called home to the Lord on Saturday (Jan. 12, 2019). Jim was born July 28, 1948, in Wichita, to J.D. and Marjorie (Huey) Odom.

He grew up mostly in Wichita and Newton before enlisting in the Army in 1968. Jim was part of the infantry unit and served proudly during Vietnam. While there, Jim was a sharp shooter, 2nd Class gunner and marksman. He finished his tour May 28, 1970, and continued serving his country in the Army Reserves until 1974. He welcomed daughter, Vanessa Odom Busby during the last year of his military career.

Jim worked with his hands most of his life and was an excellent carpenter. He spent several years in Florida as a supervisor at Golden Flame Furniture, which was owned by his younger brother, Steve. Jim moved back to Kansas in the mid-2000s and enjoyed retirement, spending hours in his woodshop, driving his prized Corvette, spoiling his puppies and loving his family.

His survivors include Vanessa of Wellington; granddaughters, Jessica Busby of Alford, Florida, and Jamie Busby of Wellington; grandson, Jase Busby of Alford; brothers, Danny Odom of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Steve Odom of Alford and Tony (Anita) Odom of Hartford, Alabama; sister, Teresa (Bobby) Fountain of Hartford; aunt, Danny Moyer of Wichita; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Linda Pursley.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday (Jan. 22, 2019) and a Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday (Jan. 23, 2019), both at Baker Funeral Home, Valley Center, with a processional to Resthaven Gardens of Memory in Wichita for military honors at graveside.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com.