James Henry Odom, beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather, 93, of Florence, formerly of Cedartown and Chamblee GA entered into the presence of his LORD and Savior Jesus Christ and joined his little daughter Geverna, son Wayne and grandson Farrell Jr. and parents who preceded him in death, on Tuesday January 23, 2018 at ECM Hospital. Elkins Funeral Home Florence and Lester C Litesay of Cedartown will be handling the services. Reverend Robert Wright and Dr. John Brock will be officiating. He is survived by his wife Earline Smith Odom, Son Farrell (Janet), daughters Sherry (Stan) and Lolita (Joe), 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

James was born February 28, 1924 to John Henry and Cleo Camp Odom in Cedartown, Ga. A hardworking husband and father, he retired from General Motors. A patriot and hero, he served as a Morse Code Operator in WWII, stationed four years in the Philippines in the Army Air Corps attached to the 5th Air Force. He was wounded in battle. While stationed in Tyler, Texas, he gave his life to Jesus Christ, which forever changed his life.

A gifted and accomplished musician, he wrote hundreds of gospel and country songs and taught himself to play the guitar and many other instruments. He made his first guitar from a gourd as a child. He played with Irvin Berlin while in the military and was asked to join his band in New York, but declined. In the 50's he hosted his own television program, Georgia Jim and the Georgia Boys which was sponsored by the Ford Tractor Company. He played with the Atlanta Symphony, was lead guitarist for the Doug Owens Orchestra and was a studio musician accompanying many other gospel groups. He had several songs recorded by many artists including; Eddie Arnold, Jeannie Shepherd, Faron Young, Roy Drusky, Eddie Ackridge.

He was inducted into the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame. He passed his love of music to his family.

In 1946, he married the love of his life and February 10th would celebrate 72 wonderful years of marriage. He adored his family. A wonderful compassionate father and grandfather, he would keep his grandchildren while their parents worked. He loved farming and was an avid gardener, growing orchards of apple, peach and pear trees and wonderful fresh vegetables.

A dedicated Christian servant, he served his LORD for many years full time as Minister of Music, Sunday School Teacher, Chairman of the Board of Deacons and Trustee.

James, a man of honor, courage, humility, wit and wisdom is greatly loved by many, especially his family. He was a quiet yet strong presence. The volume of his quiet strength spoke loudly and can not be silenced. Daddy, you will be sorely missed but we will see you soon.

Pall-bearers will be Grandsons: Todd Bragg, Zach Odom, James Taylor Odom, Samuel Mendoza, Wesley Mendoza, Jake Clemons

The family wishes to thank all sitters, healthcare personnel at ECM, Dr. Mann, Dr. Holden and Drs Boorgu


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