Betty Vincent Benton Odom

Published 4:59 pm Monday, January 10, 2022

Betty Vincent Benton Odom, a lifelong resident of Suffolk, passed away on Dec. 31, 2021, at the age of 89. She was born in Capron, the daughter of the late Floyd Robinson Benton and Grayce Vincent Benton. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers, Floyd Robinson Benton Jr. and George Edmond Benton. Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 66 years, Henry H. Odom; daughter, Elizabeth Odom Cheatham (David); son, Henry Hunter Odom Jr. (Lynda); four grandchildren, Taylor Hart Odom, Henry Huter Odom III, Meredith Stielow and Mackenzie Stielow as well as her sister-in-law, Lura S. Benton and the many people that loved her.

Betty graduated from Suffolk High School in 1950 and Longwood College in 1954 where she was a member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. After college, she was employed by the Martinsville Public School System and in 1955 married the love of her life, Henry Odom. After her kids got out of school, Betty became a volunteer for the Obici Hospital Auxiliary. Over the next 20 years, Betty logged in over 2,000 hours at the hospital. During that time, she was also a member of Westover Garden Club and the Social Club. As a lifelong member of Oxford Methodist Church, she championed many good works, including the exquisite needlepointed kneelers and the continuation of her mother’s Chrismon Christmas tree ornament creations. One of her greatest joys came from a group of friends that forged a strong bond in high school. They called themselves the “APT Club”. This bond continued throughout their adult lives. The members were Betty Birdsong Joyner, Martha Crocker Spivey, Cleo Holiday Partington, Francis Myrick Chilton and Polly Brothers Simpson. Together these ladies supported each other through the ups and downs that life offered. They kept the party going with love and laughter. What fun they had!

It is impossible to relate the impact this quiet, unassuming woman had on her family and friends. She never wanted to draw attention to herself but she always paid attention to the details and made sure everyone else did too. She was the “behind the scene” support that kept everyone going, insured success and made sure they showed up with their best foot forward. 

Interment will be private with immediate family only. A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan.15, at Oxford United Methodist Church with a reception following at the home of Lynda and Hunter Odom. R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home and Crematory, 509 W. Washington St. is serving the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Oxford United Methodist Church, 601 W. Washington St., Suffolk, VA 23434. Condolences may be registered at RWBakerFH.com.