Michael Lee (Mike) O'Dell

Michael Lee (Mike) O’Dell passed away peacefully after a short illness.  He was surrounded by his much-loved family in his last days.  He was 77.  A celebration of life will be held Friday, March 24, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Southern Hills Church of Christ, in the chapel.  Arrangements under the direction of Piersall Funeral Directors.

Mike was born in Baird, Texas, on July 22, 1945, to Edwin and Iola O’Dell.  He grew up in Abilene, Texas, playing basketball, baseball and riding horses through land that is now Wylie High School. He was child number 6 of 7, enjoying his large family.

Mike graduated from Cooper High School in 1963.  He then earned a BBA from Abilene Christian College in 1967.  During this time, he married the love of his life, Sandra Kay (Sandy) Lewis in 1964.  They were married for 57 years.  He was a member of Southern Hills Church of Christ. Mike’s life has always been centered around his love for God and his church, serving as a deacon in three congregations, including Southern Hills 39 years ago, where he was treasurer for four years.

Mike became a computer programmer with Acco Feeds in 1968.  He continued his career in computer technology throughout his life with Abilene Christian University and Texas Instruments.  Mike’s job took his family to many exotic places including Belmond, Iowa, Grand Prairie, Texas, back to Abilene, Allen, Texas and then back to Abilene again.  All through these moves, Mike used his talents in service to The Lord, but especially in Iowa, where one Sunday morning he taught class, led singing, and preached.

The great love of his life was his family, his wife, three daughters and granddaughter.  He spent quality time with each one of them, playing computer games, coaching softball,  going to Ranger games,  playing wedding with the granddaughter, and showing His love for Christ in all of his actions.  He was a gentle giant with his own unique sense of humor.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Iola O’Dell; father-in-law, Wordie Burrow; brother, Digger O’Dell and wife Jean O'Dell; sisters, Mary Ledbetter,  and Patty Visage; brothers-in-law, James Foster and Edwin Visage; and niece, Amy Clement.

Mike is survived by his wife Sandy of 57 years, 3 daughters: Leah Lenglet (Neil) of Hedgesville, WV, Julie Bingaman (Randall) of Abilene and Becki O’Dell (Chase) of Irving; one granddaughter, Ashley Barrett of Garland; mother-in-law, Jean Burrow; three sisters, Joan Dodson (Tommy), Linda Foster and Cathy Clement (Jim); brother-in-law, Tom Lewis, and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful caregivers who aided Mike in the last couple of months, especially Big Country Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you to address memorials to Big Country Hospice or Southern Hills Church of Christ.