Thomas (Sheriff Tom) Jefferson O'Dell

Tom O'Dell, of Newport, passed away, Wednesday, February 15, 2017, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Tom was a true republican and began his political career after serving his country in 1946-1947. His first position was Fish and Game Commissioner in 1947 for upper East, Tennessee. He was Road Commissioner, Road Superintendent, Sheriff and Road Superintendent again. He never lost an election and served our wonderful Cocke County for 40 years. He was an avid Tennessee Vol fan having followed the Vol's since 1939. "Dad, we will miss you terribly". Tom was preceded in death by his parents, J. B. O'Dell, Sr. and Rillie O'Dell of Newport; brothers and sisters, Mary Murr, Ellie Shropshire, William O'Dell, Bonnie Spradling, J. B. O'Dell. Jr., Mamie Cobb, Harding O'Dell, Sam O'Dell, Pearl Gray and his precious awesome wife of 61 years...Ruth Perrin O'Dell. Tom is survived by his daughter and son -in-law, Joy and Steve Large; daughter and fiancé, Susie O'Dell and Lewis Everhart; daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Eric Ellison, son and daughter-in-law, Jabo and Tammy Francis; grandchildren and their wives, Jeff and Tracy Large; Andy and Amy Austin, and Emily Ellison; great-grandchildren, Landan Large and Alexa Austin; sister, Bessie Justus. Tom is also survived by his best forever friend, Bobby Sawyer; and his true love, Margaret Blazer; also his nieces, nephews, and a huge amount of genuine friends, that will miss him terribly. It was a true honor for our Dad to serve and protect the people of Cocke County for 93 years. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm, Thursday, February 16, 2017, with funeral services following at 7:00 pm in Manes Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Scott Gorrell officiating. Please come by and visit with the family and share stories of Tom's life and celebrate his new beginning in Christ. Burial will be held 2:00 pm Friday, February 17, 2017, in Union Cemetery. Special "Thanks" to Dr. David McConnell, Dr. Russell Huntsinger, Tammy Francis and Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Providence Church 2263 Cosby Hwy, Newport, TN 37821, Alzheimer's of Tennessee in care of Alexa Austin, 363 East Main Street, Newport, TN, 37821, or Celebration of Life P. O. Box 263, Newport, TN 37821. Family and friends may sign the guest register on line at: www.manesfuneralhome.com. Arrangements by Manes Funeral Home.

Thomas (Sheriff Tom) Jefferson O'Dell

October 17, 1923 - February 15, 2017