James Odom Obituary

Memorial services for Cortez resident James Merrill Odom will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, April 29, at Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Jim was born Aug. 9, 1933, in Detroit, Mich., the son of William N. and Alameda K. (Timblim) Odom. He passed away at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, N.M., on Sunday, April 17, 2011, at the age of 77.

Jim married Carol J. Irvine on Jan. 14, 1954. They shared 57 years of marriage. Never knowing a stranger, Jim always wanted to lend a helping hand. He helped restore the Galloping Goose train and worked as a volunteer at the Dolores Visitor Center. A talented cabinet maker, Jim built the cabinets that are in place at Notah Dineh Trading Post. In his free time he loved traveling even when it was one of his many Sunday drives of the area.

Surviving Jim are his beloved wife, Carol Odom of Cortez; his son, Jay Odom and wife Minka of Cortez; daughter, Linda Kirsch of Cortez; four grandchildren, Julie Myers and husband Robby, Heather Odom, Holly Kirsch, and J.J. Odom; his brother, Bill Odom and wife Donna of Covina, Calif.; and numerous family and friends.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Jesy Kirsch; sister, Anita Wagner; and son-in-law, Bruce Kirsch.

Memorial contributions can be made in memory of James M. Odom with Dolores State Bank. Services are under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home. For further information or to send condolences, log on to www.ertelfuneralhome.com and click on the obituary section.