Donnis Grace Ladner Odom

Donnis Grace Odom, born on December 13, 1949, in Lumberton, MS, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, in her hometown. She lived a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to both her family and her career.

Donnis was a proud graduate of Poplarville High School, furthering her education at Pearl River Community College and the University of Southern Mississippi. She also attended Real Estate School, where she earned her Brokerage License. Throughout her professional life, she excelled in various roles. Notably, Donnis served as a Clinique Counter Manager at McRae's, worked as a Secretary at Lumberton High School, and fulfilled her entrepreneurial spirit as a Real Estate Agent with her own company, Magnolia Realty. Although she retired from Navo at Stennis Space Center after many years as a Secretary, her impact on those she worked with is remembered fondly.

A lover of travel, Donnis always looked forward to her next adventure, enjoying both local trips and distant destinations. She had a remarkable talent for cooking, known for her delicious chocolate cake topped with homemade icing and her famous potato salad, which she often shared with friends and family. Her sweet, loving, and caring personality made her a cherished friend to many. Donnis had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel special and loved, embodying kindness and beauty in all her interactions.

Donnis was deeply devoted to her faith and cherished her time at church, where she was an active member of her church family. This dedication to God and community was central to her life.

Surviving Donnis are her beloved family, including her children, Gary Odom (Pamela), Kaye Rester (Curtis), and Kevin Odom (Sherrie). She also leaves behind her sister, Carolyn Landrum; brothers, Phillip Ladner (Brenda), Donald Gene Ladner (Janet), and Mac Ladner (Donna); sister-in-law, Edna Ladner; grandchildren, Amy Godfrey (Stephen), Austin Rester (Faith), and Andrew Odom; as well as great-grandchildren, Blair Godfrey, Bristol Godfrey, Genevieve Rester, and Thomas Rester. Donnis is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever carry her memory.

Donnis is preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Eva Ladner; her husband of 50 years, Elby Odom; her daughter-in-law Kayren Odom; and her brothers, Ronald Ladner and Ralph Ladner along with wife Susan.

A visitation will be held at Hickory Creek Baptist Church in Lumberton, MS, on December 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and on December 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial will take place immediately after the service at 12:00 PM, allowing friends and family to honor and celebrate the life of this remarkable woman.

Donnis Grace Odom will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her love, kindness, and unwavering spirit.