Odell W. Guffey

Odell W. Guffey, 90, of Marion, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2024. He was born on May 21, 1934, in Albany, Kentucky, to Roland and Hadia (Neal) Guffey. After moving to Indiana, Odell graduated from New Castle High School in 1954, the same year he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country from 1954 to 1956.

On July 20, 1957, Odell married the love of his life, Patricia (Benson) Guffey. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. They were blessed with many years of love, laughter, and shared memories.

Odell was a skilled tradesman, dedicating 38 years of service to General Motors as a Welder before his retirement in 1993. His work ethic was matched only by his commitment to serving others. A man of strong faith, Odell was a devoted member of the 1st Baptist Church in Marion, where he exemplified his love for Jesus and his walk with God.

He was also an active and proud member of the Masonic Lodge Post 105 for over 50 years, as well as the Scottish Rite in Ft. Wayne. Odell’s life was a testament to his values—he was tough yet kind, hardworking yet humble, and always ready to lend a hand to those in need.

Outside of work and service, Odell lived life to the fullest. He was an avid basketball player at the YMCA, a lover of the outdoors, and enjoyed spending time at the family’s lake cottage at Silver Lake. He found joy in gardening, fishing, hunting, and biking. Odell was never one to sit still—he lived every moment with purpose and energy, leaving behind a legacy of strength and resilience.

Above all, Odell was a true man of God, loved deeply by his family and friends, and respected by all who knew him.

Odell is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Patricia Guffey; children, Lisa (Jeff) Timmons of Marion, Indiana, Laina (Phil) Leech of Marion, Indiana; grandchildren, Olivia (Derek) Wright, Abby Timmons, Melissa (Derrick) Bryant, Brooke Nobles, Alex Guffey, Taylor Guffey, and Jordan Choate; great grandchildren, Katelyn (Isak) Lagerkvist, Payne Wright, Madisyn Timmons, Micah Bryant, Jeremiah Bryant, Luke Bryant, TJ Cullen Jr., Grace Guffey, Hudson Choate, and Sydney Choate; great great grandchild, Kingston; sister, Barbara (Herman) Riggs; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in his passing by his parents and son, Dirk Guffey.

Arrangements for Odell have been entrusted to the College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4601 S. Western Avenue, Marion, IN 46953.A visitation will be held at the College Park Chapel on Monday, September 16, 2024 from 10-12. A service is to follow with Jeff Timmons officiating the service. Immediate following the service there will be a burial at Marion National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in remembrance of Odell can be made to the 1st Baptist Church, 403 W. 4th Street, Marion, Indiana 46952.