Thelma Marie McVay O'Dell, 87

Thelma Marie McVay O'Dell was born in Unionville, Mo., on Nov. 24, 1923. She went to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 17, 2011. Mrs. O'Dell moved to the Coeur d'Alene area in 1987 from Stevensville, Mont.

She is survived by four children, Karen Cutsforth of Stevensville, Susie Russell of Coeur d'Alene, David O'Dell of Gardiner, Mont., and Roger O'Dell of Coeur d'Alene; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie O'Dell on Jan. 15, 1962; her oldest son, Eddie Lee O'Dell on June 18, 1967, and an infant grandson, Eric on Dec. 8, 1969.

Mrs. O'Dell was a valued member of every community she lived in. She taught a Women's Bible Study, Sunday School and most recently her room was known as The Gathering Place. Residents would seek her wisdom as she was always willing to share her Biblical knowledge. She continually enriched the lives of all who knew her by gentle instruction.

After a lifetime of sharing her skills through sewing and embroidery, she recently took up making Origami projects, again, sharing with those around her. Such a loving, gracious and forgiving person, she will be GREATLY missed.

Her memorial service will be held Monday, May 2, 2011, at Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville.