James Joseph O'Dea, Jr.

The family of James Joseph (Jimmy) O’Dea Jr., is grieving the loss of a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He died unexpectedly December 17, 2022, at a Houston hospital. He was looking forward to a lively Christmas with grandkids and far-away family. He was especially looking forward to Luca coming from Spokane, WA. Born on July 18, 1949, in Oklahoma City, OK, to his parents, James Joseph O’Dea Sr. and Edna (McGinn), he grew up practicing the Catholic faith in a home that served in and respected military service. Following graduation from Harding HS, and in the footsteps of his dad who returned from World War II with severe wounds, his brother-in-law, Mike McIntyre, a Marine serving in Viet Nam, and his brother, Terry, serving in the Navy, also in Viet Nam at the time, Jim enlisted into the U.S. Army in 1970. After discharge, Jimmy moved to Houston with several Army buddies, where he met his future wife, Kay Ellis. Jim and Kay married in 1973 on a mountain in Great Lake, CO. In 1975, their first child, James Joseph O’Dea III, was born in Houston. When he was one, they moved to Oklahoma City where they bought a home. Three years later, Brigid Joy was welcomed into the family and 3 years after that, Cyndal Caitlin was born. His home on 34th St., halfway between his childhood home and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and John Carroll School became a welcoming, loving, open door to his nieces, nephews, and life long friends. The Cousins spent many happy summer nights making forts, having pillow fights, and slumber parties. Returning to Houston to be closer to Kay’s family, they raised three beautiful children. Later in their lives, they were truly blessed with a fourth child, Erin Bailey. He treasured her and she adored him. After working in the Wholesale Floral business for most of his life, Jimmy last worked for Taylor Wholesale located in Houston Heights until Spring 2020. Kay retired from teaching at the same time and they were so grateful to be able to spend years of retirement together. James battled three different forms of cancer and survived. After completing his last round of radiation for lung cancer, he rang the bell for the last time in the Summer of 2022. The family would like to thank all the nurses and doctors at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital that allowed him to remain home with his family for which they are very grateful. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Mai, Radiology, whose mission was to preserve the health and happiness of our family. The family also wishes to thank the lifelong friends of Jimmy: Bill Siemens (OKC), Larry Eades (OKC), and Jim Eades (Tampa, FL) for their love and support during this time. His family feels a tremendous loss. Jimmy, who was a loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend continues to shine a light on this earth. His humor, kindness, and love will never be forgotten. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Ann McIntyre. Survivors include: Wife - Mary Kay Ellis-O’Dea Son - James Joseph (Joe) O’Dea III, (Keiko) and children -James Shin and Josephine Kanon Daughter - Brigid Nardini (Shane) and children - Angelo, Liliana, and Luca Daughter - Cyndal Ellis Bigelow (Ian) and son - Asa Daughter - Erin Bailey O’Dea. Brother -Terry O’Dea (Becky) Nieces and Nephews- Ryan O’Dea (Marianna), Molly Ross-Metheny (Kevin), Shoana McIntyre, Mary McIntyre Smith (Mike), Danny McIntyre (Amber), and Austin Ellis. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, January 13th at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), 1601 Sunset Blvd., Houston, 77002 with Rev. Mike Hunter officiating. A reception will follow. Internment is at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Hwy Houston, 77038 at 2:15 p.m. Those who wish to remember Jim in a special way may make gifts in his memory to: Dale K. Graham Veterans Foundation 1233 W. Lindsay St. Norman, OK 73069 Tributes and words of condolence may be left for the family at www.davisgreenlawnfh.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd. (Hwy 59 South @ FM 2218), Rosenberg, Texas 77471, Phone: 281-341-8800.

Tributes

James Joseph O'Dea, Jr.

July 18, 1949 - December 17, 2022