David Guy Odham

David Guy Odham, 74, of Kingsport, TN, peacefully entered his Heavenly Home on Sunday, January 21st, 2024, in the loving presence of his cherished family.

David was born in 1949 in Kingsport, TN. He served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, rising to the esteemed position of a drill instructor at Lackland AFB, where he held the rank of Sergeant, ultimately serving as Tech Sergeant, overseeing all bases in England. David took immense pride in his military service, receiving multiple honorable mentions and medals.

Beyond his military career, David's professional journey led him to become the general manager of Chili's, a role in which he excelled. He also left his mark internationally, as he played a pivotal role in opening restaurants in various corners of the world, including the Caribbean.

Above all else, David's heart belonged to the Lord, whom he placed at the forefront of his life. He was a member of Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist in Kingsport, where he devoted over 12 years of his life serving his church family as a deacon.

David was a man of diverse passions. He loved to fish, was an avid NASCAR fan rooting for Chase Elliott and the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr., and was a major fan of the University of Tennessee.

He spoiled his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always ready to shower them with affection and create cherished memories. His infectious humor, outgoing nature, and talent for cracking jokes made him a delight to be around.
David was renowned for his kindness, love of his family, and genuine humility that endeared him to everyone he met.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Hazel Odham, as well as his grandparents, William and Dorothy Todd. Tragically, he also mourned the loss of his beloved grandson, Jake Davis.

Left to cherish his memory forever are his devoted wife of 34 years, Darlene; his loving sons, Todd Odham and his wife Melanie, and Andy Anderson; his cherished daughters, Patti Berger (San Antonio, TX), Lois Davis (Deland, FL), Brenda Barbee and her husband Mike (Loveland, CO), Nikki Anstine and her husband Steve (Mechanicsville, VA), and Tamera Odham. David's legacy continues through his eighteen adoring grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; he is also survived by his brother, Danny Odham, and his wife Trish (Seymour, TN), as well as his sister, Cathy Dean, and her husband Tommy; special sister-in-law, Marlene Strawser; numerous nieces and nephews also hold treasured memories of their beloved uncle.

Services honoring David's remarkable life will be held at Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist Church (125 Coley Street) on Sunday, February 4th, 2024 at 2:30 pm. Pastor Larry Browder will officiate the ceremony. Join us as we come together to celebrate a life well-lived and bid farewell to our beloved David.

Special thanks to the medical staff that cared for him at the VA and for Caris personnel as well.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the Odham family.