Robert "Bob" L. O'Dell

Robert “Bob” L. O’Dell, age 78 of Knoxville, earned his wings with a broken heart on May 21, 2023. He was of the Baptist faith. Bob retired from Norfolk Southern Railway and was a member of the Moose Lodge, the Eagles, and the Masons, as well as, a Vietnam veteran. He was best known for dressing as Santa every year to bring joy to children all over Knoxville whether it was at an event or in a hospital. Bob was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Preceded in death by wife of 58 years, Judy O’Dell, parents Harrison and Gladys O’Dell, sisters Ima King and Wilma Kelly, great-grandson Elli Stapp. Survived by daughters Robin (Raymond) Stapp and Valarie Moore (Eric Hickman), grandchildren Courtney Stapp (Geoff Cusick), Joshua (Rachel) Stapp, Brittani Arrowood, Heath (Emily) Moore, and Cody Lowery, 8 great-grandchildren, sister Donna (Lonnie) Kemper, several nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends 6:00-8:00pm Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Mynatt Funeral Home Halls Chapel. Family and friends will meet at 1:45pm Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier Highway for a 2:00pm interment. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mynattfh.com