James W. O’Dell, 87, of Monticello passed away at 5:05 a.m. on January 19, 2021 at the Bement Health Care Center in Bement, IL.

James was born on May 2, 1933 in Mattoon to Evin and Harrette (Hightshoe) O’Dell.  He married Karen Smith on July 3, 1969. She passed away on September 22, 2015.

He is survived by one daughter, Deena (Martin) Rothermel of Homer; four grandchildren, Rebekah (Jamison) Lowe of Davenport, IA, Kristen (Kevin) Burch of Monticello,...

James W. O’Dell, 87, of Monticello passed away at 5:05 a.m. on January 19, 2021 at the Bement Health Care Center in Bement, IL.

James was born on May 2, 1933 in Mattoon to Evin and Harrette (Hightshoe) O’Dell.  He married Karen Smith on July 3, 1969. She passed away on September 22, 2015.

He is survived by one daughter, Deena (Martin) Rothermel of Homer; four grandchildren, Rebekah (Jamison) Lowe of Davenport, IA, Kristen (Kevin) Burch of Monticello, Courtney Rothermel of Homer, and Hayden Rothermel of Homer; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Karen Odell; four sisters, Elsie Phillips, Mary O’Dell, Bernice O’Dell, and Betty Lou O’Dell; one brother, Edward O’Dell; and great grandchild, James Burch.

Besides spending time with his family, James enjoyed fishing and being competitive (and winning some money) in board and card games. James had a caring and passionate personality and was known to make a room smile and laugh. He touched many lives with his up-beat and life of the party personality! He was dedicated to show his love to his many (great) grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bement Health Care Center.