OBITUARY: Jeanne Odams, 91

Below is an obituary from RJ Ross Funeral Home:

WRENTHAM, MA — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jeanne Odams, who passed away on February 4, 2025, at the age of 91.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her beloved sister Priscilla, who passed away years ago, and her cherished son, David, who died in 2002. She is survived by her devoted husband of over 65 years, Bob Odams, her two children: Elizabeth Pearson and her husband Martin along with Scott Odams and his wife Marci. She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren—Heather, Krista, Derek, Dave, Riley, Kaitlyn, Billy, and Isabella —and three great-grandchildren: Penelope, Cora, and Russell.

Jeanne was born on August 19, 1933, in Boston, MA. She grew up in Sharon before moving to Vineyard Haven on Martha’s Vineyard, where she attended school. She later moved on to Amherst, MA, to attend the University of Massachusetts. On May 7, 1957, Jeanne married the love of her life Bob in Corpus Christi, Texas, while Bob was in Navy flight school in Pensacola, FL. Together, they built a beautiful life, moving to Wilmington, MA, before finding their dream home in Wrentham, MA, where they spent many happy years.

A true New Englander at heart, Jeanne was fiercely independent, strong-willed, and known for her stoic nature. Her stylish taste and love of life shone through in everything she did. Jeanne had a deep love for the outdoors, and her passions included walking, hiking, climbing mountains, skiing at Sweatt Hill, cross-country skiing, sailing, canoeing, and skating on Lake Archer. Her family fondly remembers her as “Jeanne Jeanne the walking machine” for her dedication to daily walks. Jeanne and Bob loved to take their family on annual camping trips, always exploring new places.

She was also an avid reader, gardener, and crafter, always keeping busy with something. Jeanne loved her family dearly and enjoyed making beautiful heart-shaped cookies for her children and grandchildren every Valentine’s Day. The holidays, especially Thanksgiving, held a special place in her heart, as they brought the family together.

Jeanne was a dedicated member of the Original Congregational Church, enjoying her time working in the kitchen and being part of a close-knit community. She was also a skilled bridge player and part of a weekly bridge club. Whether working inside the house, outside, or down at the lake, Jeanne was always doing something to help or make life a little brighter for those around her.

Her love of beautiful things, her ability to kick a field goal when needed, and her uncanny resemblance to Jackie Onassis in her youth will all be fondly remembered. Jeanne was a woman of strength, grace, and devotion, and she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Monday, February 10, 2025, from 9AM-11AM in the R.J. Ross Funeral Home, 135 South Street, Wrentham. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home at 11AM. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jeanne’s memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org.