James "Larry" Odom, 72, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 12, 2016. He had been ill for a long while, suffering from complications of diabetes. Larry was the son of the late Frank and Willie Nelms Odom. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Glenda Scarboro Odom. A daughter, Mia O. Jones and two sons, Blake Odom and Darrin Dowdy. Three sisters, June(Tom) Spratlin, Beverly Odom Mckey and Kathy Odom (Al) Van Vrancken. Three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Born in Athens, GA in 1944 he played basketball for Athens High School which he graduated from in 1963. Larry served his country in the army during the Vietnam War (1965-1967). He served in the 2nd Squadron 9th Cavalry 1st Division in which he earned several honorary medals including the Purple Heart. Mr. Odom was a Captain with the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department for 25 years, retiring in 1993.

Larry was a fine Christian man who loved his family and friends dearly. He also was an avid sports fan who loved all sports, especially "The Georgia Bulldogs." He will be sorely missed by all of those who knew him. Visitation will be Thursday, September 15th at Lord and Stephens West from 12-2P.M. with a memorial service following at 2:00 at Lord and Stephens West Chapel. Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements. -