Dale Ray O'Dell's Obituary
Dale Ray O’Dell, 89, of Bel Alton, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025. He was born on September 28, 1935, in Hominy Falls, West Virginia. Dale was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose smile, kindness, craftsmanship, and unwavering faith touched the lives of many.
Dale’s journey began in West Virginia, where he first worked at a gas station before transitioning into the coal mines. Seeking new opportunities for his family, he moved them from West Virginia to Indian Head, Maryland, to begin his federal service at the Naval Propellant Plant/Naval Ordnance Station. His hard work and dedication eventually led him to a career at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, where he retired as the Foreman of the Electric Shop. He retired in 1997 with 35+ years of Federal Service.
Outside of work, Dale had a passion for woodworking, creating pieces that he lovingly shared with family, friends, and his church. He also enjoyed golfing and was a steadfast supporter of his church community.
Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Bert Lucion O’Dell and Lovie Lou “Della” (Hudkins) O’Dell; his siblings, Darrel “Jay” O’Dell, Dollie “Sis” (O’Dell) Trout, John “Buddy” O’Dell, and Emma Lea (O’Dell) Trout; and his son, Timothy O’Dell.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carol O’Dell of 68 years; daughters, Marsha “Kim” Leas (Rick) of Haymarket, Virginia, and Sherri Bowie (Tom) of Bel Alton, Maryland; daughter-in-law, Lora O’Dell of Mechanicsville, Maryland; grandchildren, Jaimie O’Dell, Ryan Leas (Alicia), Kyle Leas (Courtney), Chelsey Cornett (James), Tyler Bowie (Kristie), Jessica Eversole (Bryce), and Sean Bowie; and great-grandchildren, Jackson Cornett, Emmy Leas, Owen Cornett, Virginia Leas, and Cooper Leas; his “chosen family”, Donna Reynard and Cheyenne Figueroa; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. The family would also like to remember the loving caretakers from Care With Grace. His smile, love, wisdom, and generosity will live on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.
The family will receive friends at Indian Head Baptist Church, 27 Raymond Ave, Indian Head, MD 20640, on Friday, February 14, 2025, 11:00 AM until time of funeral service at 12:00 PM. Internment Trinity Memorial Gardens, 3221 Mattawoman Beantown Rd, Waldorf, MD 20601.
Dale’s life was one of faith, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered, in our hearts.
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