Shirley Mae Jefferson O'Dell

Shirley J. O’Dell, 83 of Eden, went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at Ancora Gibson House. She was born on June 11, 1942 in Spray, NC to Thomas Jefferson and Pearl Roop Jefferson.

A graveside service will be held at 2pm on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 at O’Dell Family Cemetery in Ridgeway, Virginia. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 from 5-7pm at Fair Funeral Home in Eden.

Shirley worked for Unifi Corporation for over fifteen years, in addition to several local convenience stores. In her retirement she worked as a door greeter at Wal-Mart in Mayodan, NC. She loved meeting and talking to people. Her kindness extended to everyone she met. Shirley enjoyed a holiday gathering, working word search books, and attending Friendly Worship Center. Her journey was marked by a spirit of generosity and unwavering commitment for everyone to know her Lord and Savior. Of all roles, none filled her heart more than being called “Nanny.” More than anything, Shirley loved her family with her whole heart.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Elizabeth Harbour.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, Dean O’Dell and daughters, Connie Travis (Tim), Bonnie O’Dell, Christe Haley (Jamie); grandson, Jacob Campbell; granddaughter, Jessica Hopkins; great-granddaughter, Nikole Warren (Hunter), great-great-grandchildren, Paisley and Weslee Warren; as well as very special friend, Gail Hopkins.

On behalf of the family, we would like to thank the entire staff at the Gibson House for their compassionate care from the first encounter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care or St. Jude’s Children’s Research.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com.