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Janice K. Odom was born on January 22, 1946, and spent her early years in Ashburn where she attended Turner County High School, laying the foundation for a life filled with service, love, and a steadfast dedication to her family and community.

Jan embarked on a remarkable career at First State Bank in Cordele, where she dedicated 34 years of her life. Starting as a bank teller, her exceptional skills and graduation from the Georgia Banking School saw her rise to the position of Senior Vice President. Upon her retirement, she contributed to the bank’s success by serving on the Board of Directors. Additionally, she spent a decade at South Georgia Technical College, further broadening her sphere of influence and impact.

Known for her vivacious spirit and love of travel, Jan celebrated life with her friends and family. Whether she was exploring the mountains of North Carolina, basking on a beach in Florida, wandering through the European countryside, or enjoying an Alaskan cruise, Jan’s journeys were always cherished more because of the loved ones who accompanied her.

Jan’s life was deeply rooted in her relationships. She was always there to lend a helping hand, offering her time and energy generously, especially in times of adversity. Her home church, Pinecrest Baptist Church, benefited greatly from her commitment to its growth and renewal. Within this community, she found support and friendship while raising her three children.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents, T.E. Kennedy, Jr. and Gladys Pirkle Kennedy; great-grandson Hunter Wesley Brown; stepdaughter Gina Strong; brother Thomas David Kennedy; former husband John David Gilliam, Jr.; husband Wesley R. Odom; and her special love, Richard Spurgeon Ambrose. Despite these sorrows, Jan remained a pillar of strength for her family and friends.

Jan is survived by her loving children and their families: Son John David Gilliam, III (Leslie), granddaughter Jessica Johns, grandson Justin Gilliam (Blair) and great-grandchildren Tinsley and Everett, step-granddaughter Mary Katherine Iler (Kevin) and great-grandson Sam, and step-grandson Grier Murphy; daughter Michelle Dawn Hatalak (Jim) and grandchildren Dallas Mathis and great-grandchild Wyatt, and grandchild Mollie Mathis; Son Kennon Shane Gilliam (Jennifer) and grandchildren Emma Gilliam and Blake Gilliam; stepson Dr. John Odom (Amanda) and grandchildren Virginia Ruth Odom and Roscoe Odom; stepson Marvin Odom; and grandson Cheyne Strong; siblings: Pat K. Stamps, Beth K. Boutwell, Cynthia K. Moon, Marvin A. Kennedy (Michelle), and Scott Kennedy (Angela) and many special cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service was held at Pinecrest Baptist Church at noon, on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Rev. Kenny Peters and Rev. Don Howell officiated the service. Jan was eulogized by her close friends Suzanne Harper and Kim Taylor. Ray Faircloth, pianist, and Donna Malloy, organist, played “Blessed Assurance” and “Victory in Jesus”. Her family received friends from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m., Friday, October 4, 2024, at Hughes & Wright Funeral Home, allowing all who knew and loved Jan to honor her memory and the beautiful, spirited life she lived. Burial followed at Rose Hill Cemetery, Ashburn, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers please support Pinecrest Baptist Church (https://www.pinecrestbc.com/give) or Cancer Ties (https://www.cancerties.com) with your donation.