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1952 - 2026
 Michael W. O’Dell, age 74, of Milton, WV, passed away May 3, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.
Michael was born April 17, 1952, in Charleston, WV, and lived 12 years in Pinch, WV. The remainder of his life he lived in Milton, WV and his beloved Pocahontas County. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Vivian O’Dell of Milton. He lived a wonderfully fulfilled life with faith, family, and friends.
Michael graduated from Milton High School and served in the WV Air National Guard for six years. After graduating Marshall University, he was fortunate to spend a wonderful 42 year career in the Cabell County School System, working with wonderful staff and parents. He proudly served as a teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Administrator of Elementary Schools, Director of Building and Grounds, and retired from Assistant Superintendent of Schools. He was a member of Milton Baptist Church, serving his Lord as an usher and Trustee.
He is survived by his wife, Joan Sovine O’Dell of 54 years. They were high school sweethearts and lifetime sweethearts. She was a fulfilled prayer from God, and will be forever sweethearts.
He is also survived by one son, Bryan Michael O’Dell (Erin) of Milton, two wonderful grandchildren, Alexander O’Dell and Zoey O’Dell, one nephew, Rickie Clark (Marilyn), and one beloved sister, Ronna O’Dell.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Wallace Funeral Home, Milton. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Wallace Funeral Home, Milton, by Pastor Jim Butcher. Burial will be in Valley View Memorial Park, Hurricane. Expressions of sympathy and donations may be directed to Milton Baptist Church, 1123 Church Street, Milton, WV 25541. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
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There are currently 9 condolences.
Stephanie lewis
stephaniemarcum644@gmail.com
Saturday May 9, 2026 at
3:42 AM
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Mr.Odell was my elementary principal and was one of the nicest yet sternest principals but he had a heart of gold and was very understanding and was always going the extra mile for the kids it breaks my heart that he's gone but I'm thankful that I got to know him and that he made a positive impact on my life and he will greatly be missed...
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Mary
Friday May 8, 2026 at
1:50 AM
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Mike was such a phenomenal man. I am glad I had the privilege of caring for him. Lots of prayers for the family
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Penny & Kevin Morrison
Wednesday May 6, 2026 at
4:40 PM
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So sorry for your loss Joan and family, Mike was my boss at the central office for about twelve years when he was in Elementary Ed. also when he when he was in building and grounds dept. He was a very professional person in both positions, I truly enjoyed working with him. We will miss him
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Jeffery Smith
Tuesday May 5, 2026 at
9:33 PM
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Mrs. O’Dell and family, I am saddened to hear of Mr. O’Dell’s Passing. He was my principal at Culloden Elementary. It goes without saying that he made a huge impact not only in my life, but in the lives of so many of the students who were lucky enough to have known him. He cared so much about the children in a way that every educator would do very well to aspire to. His hope, his faith, and his warmth were so contagious that 25 years later, they still bring a smile to my face. Him opening an intercom announcement on Opposite Day by saying “Morning Good”, or beaming ear to ear while celebrating the achievements of kids in the school are little moments that will endure. He greeted every student who walked through the doors by name every single morning and was dedicated to making the world a better place through his actions, love, and wisdom. I think it’s fair to say that he succeeded. He will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss.
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David Tackett
Tuesday May 5, 2026 at
1:49 PM
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Mike was a wonderful mentor for me and I was very blessed to have had the chance to know him. Shelly and I are very saddened by his loss.
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Olivia (Hope) Hayes
Tuesday May 5, 2026 at
1:46 PM
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Mr. O'Dell was my elementary school principal and every morning he would be standing by the door greeting every single student that came in. Any time he saw me or my younger brother he would say "I've got my Hope today!" Or "I have twice the Hope today". I will never forget it! He really took the time to know everyone, and he will be truly missed! I am so sorry for your loss.
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Samantha (Terry) Sidebottom
Tuesday May 5, 2026 at
11:50 AM
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I was fortunate enough to know you as my elementary school principal. The impressions you made have been carried with me my entire life. I am 40 now, and forever grateful for your wisdom and words of encouragement. You will be missed Sir.
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William Smith
Monday May 4, 2026 at
9:31 PM
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Joan, you and the family are in my prayers. Mike was a joy the work with - A man of honor. His commitment to children is legacy in Cabell County. We will not be able to count the number of lives he touched in the four plus decades of a beautiful career. I was truly blessed to have known him.
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Simon Morrison
simonwv@aol.com
Monday May 4, 2026 at
3:23 PM
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Mike was a great niehbor, friend, and patriot. Kim and I are going to miss him very much, but have the hope of seeing him againg.
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