It seems that for all of my life I would tell people, "I want to do great things." The typical response is generally a quizzical glance, a scratch of the head and the inevitable question, "Why?" But not so with you Mom. Whenever I would tell you I want to change the stars or scale a mountain, you would always say, "Why not?" And I would find encouragement to do the great thing.

Stella was such an inspiration to family, friends and co-workers. She didn't finish high school, but went on to earn a GED, BA, MA and then a Doctrate. She never quit trying to improve herself. Stella will be sincerely missed.

I love you Mom. Thank you for changing my life and always pushing me forward. I miss you.

"L'amour est la seule chose qu'on emporte dans l'éternité." de Antonine Maillet
Dearest Stella:
From the moment I met you in California in 2006, I loved your warm and witty personality. In your honor, I will watch movies in which you appeared. A bientôt dear Stella.

Dr. Stella Odom, We will miss you. We all loved and admired you. In our private conversations I got to know you as a kind, caring individual who loved her children and grandchildren unconditionally. I promise you, I will take care of and provide for Julie, until we meet again. My commitment to this family and Julie is forever. Your wishes will be followed. LOVE your son in Law :) RIP

Dear Mother, we spent 16 wonderful years together. We laughed we cried. I love the barbecues we used to have in the back yard and have a little bubbly as we chatted. You have such a gracious spirit and you wanted the best for me. We were always worried about each other. Our daily phone calls and Skype calls were so good since I lived in another state. I love you, Marty,Your Son

I will miss you so very much. I fell in love with your daughter at a time in my life when I had demons on my back. You never judged me. You came back into my life, and with your words of encourgement I went back to school. College is a great achievement that I owe to you and your words spoken to me on that day two years ago. You left a beautiful mark upon my heart. Thank you for being you!