We remember the life and ministry of Reverend Jeffrey Vaughn Odom who passed away on January 6, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Odom, and his children Jeffrey Odom, Jr. (Elizabeth), Russel Odom (Jill) and his cherished grandchildren, Carly Odom, Mandy Odom, and Olivia Odom.
Jeff grew up in Takoma Park, Maryland, and graduated in 1964 with a degree in physics from the University of Maryland, College Park. After obtaining a Master of Science degree in Measurement Science, Jeff worked for the U.S. Metric Study which was commissioned by the U.S. Congress. In 1978, he felt God call him into full-time ministry and he graduated with a Masters of Divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1982.
Jeff had pastoral appointments to Carrolls-Gills UMC in Lutherville, Calvary UMC in Gamber, Wesley UMC in Hampstead, and Millers-Bixlers UMC in Manchester. Upon retiring from full-time ministry, he became Pastor of Visitation at Catonsville United Methodist Church.
Jeff’s passions were in mission work, acts of service, prayer and Bible studies. His dedication to Christian service included:
- Supporting the development of the Baltimore County Christian Workcamp
- Initiating the Maryland Walk to Emmaus
- Leading adults and youth to mission service in Costa Rica and Guatemala
- Leadership of the Board of Alpha Pregnancy Center in Reisterstown
- Leading natural disaster relief to several areas of the United States
- Leading Wednesday night Bible Studies with his wife Marge
In lieu of flowers, Jeff requested that gifts be given to Steps of Hope – Guatemala. He was deeply involved and committed to this ministry that brought hope for a better life through the education of the 160 children who attend this remedial educational program in Santa Maria de Jesús, Guatemala. Donations can be made to Steps of Hope – Guatemala with In Memory of Jeffrey Odom on the memo line. Send checks to Steps of Hope – Guatemala at 2208 Rockwell Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228.
A Celebration of Life service was held for Reverend Jeffrey Vaughn Odom on January 18, 2025 at Catonsville United Methodist Church.