James Edward Odom, AKA Jim, Jimmie James, Pops or Pappi (kind of like Pappy but with an "I" sound at the end) passed away on September 20, 2021, at Parkridge Medical Center after a month-long illness.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda Sweeton Odom; his daughters whom he loved dearly, Julia Odom (Chris Pratt) and Kristen Odom-Holland (J.P. Holland); his three adored grandchildren, Johannes Odom, Sadie and Myla Holland; his siblings, Mary Chappell, Bill Odom and Harlena Phillips and nieces, nephews and cousins.
He is also survived by his many long-time employees and artists who are loved like family, and best friend, Dave Smith.
He was predeceased by his parents, Harley Edward Odom and Ona Belle Odom.
Jim was and remains beloved by all who knew him. But he came from a long line of ornery men. He often said "If you think I'm mean, you should have met my daddy. And if you think he was mean, you should have met his daddy." Luckily for all of us, his mother was the sweetest woman alive and successfully watered down all that orneriness.
Jim never met a pun or bad joke that he wasn't willing to tell. As he got older he wanted everyone to know that he could still jump up and click his heels together so he often demonstrated that.
He was invariably generous with both money and help, ready to stop on the side of the road for anyone who might be in distress. Several years ago, he turned those generous impulses into an official charity by founding and almost single handedly funding a food bank in Sevier County, Tennessee with the help of friend Pastor Bill Haley, which still feeds hundreds of people every week. While visiting the Smoky Mountains be sure and tune in to his Christian radio station (98.3 WJQJ) that spreads the love of Jesus.
Jim never wanted to be mourned, so a celebration of his life will take place at Willow Tree Farms on Oct. 17, at 3 p.m. There will be dinner served after the celebration. Willow Tree Farms, 607 Post Road, Ringgold, GA 30736.
In lieu of flowers or other donations, Jim would love it if donations were made to his charity:
Lighting the Way Outreach
174 E Wears Valley Road, Suite 21
Sevierville, TN 37863
865-366-1322