Odell Manfred Smith Jr.

Odell Smith (88), of Brigham City, Utah, was the first of seven children. Odell was born in Los Angeles, California on March 31, 1927 to Odell Manfred Smith and Audrey Helen Smith. Odell passed away peacefully, at Willow Glen Care Center in Brigham City, Utah on Sunday April 19, 2015.Odell grew up on his father’s dairy farm in Amalga, Utah. There he learned how to work and play as well. Odell entered the U.S. Navy in January 26, 1945. He served in World War II aboard the U.S. S. Pennsylvania as signalman. He received the Asiatic-Pacific Medal, American Area Medal, and World War II Victory Medal.Odell married RaNae Griffin on May 9, 1947, and on June 20, 1949 was sealed in the Logan Temple. They raised five children. Later they were divorced. Odell was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; holding many callings in various organizations. Odell and RaNae moved to Idaho in 1958 when they drew a homestead in Minidoka County. The draw number was 68. He raised Registered Brown Swiss dairy cows and farmed. Odell learned the value of hard work and instilled that trait in his children. They all worked hard on the family farm. Characteristics were: He loved working with honey bees and had several beehives, providing the family and others with honey. He enjoyed planting and growing roses, and many varieties of flowers. He enjoyed a beautiful yard. He enjoyed painting and drawing. Odell was very active politically. He served in the Democratic Party and ran for State Representative in 1965 circa. His campaign slogan was “Do well with Odell”.Returning to Utah Odell resided in Brigham City, UT for the past 30 years.Odell is survived by his children: Pamela (Val) Nish, Smithfield, UT; Cynthia (Paul) Mickelsen, Rupert, ID; Andrea (Tim) Jolley, Rupert, ID; Corey (Melody) Smith, Rupert, ID; and Jeremy (Lisa) Smith, Rupert, ID; 23 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; siblings: Clifford Smith, Hooper, UT; Paul (Betty) Smith, Layton, UT; Tamara (Ralph) Jones, Ogden, UT; Jerry (DeeAnn) Smith, Syracuse, UT; Cheryl (Dave) Evans, Ogden, UT; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Odell was preceded in death by his parents: Odell Manfred Smith and Audrey Helen Smith and a sister Arlene Haws. Appreciation is given to the staff at Willow Glen Care Center, and Bristol Hospice as well as many others who have loved and cared for Odell.Graveside services will be held Thursday April 23, 2015 at 12:00 noon at the Smithfield City Cemetery. 300 East Center Street Smithfield, UT