Johnny Odom

John Franklin “Johnny” Odom

Beloved Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle, Pharmacist, Entrepreneur, Coach, and Friend

October 21, 1949 – April 6, 2025

John Franklin “Johnny” Odom passed away peacefully at home on April 6, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family and dear friends. Known for his boundless generosity, quiet strength, and loving heart, Johnny was deeply respected and unconditionally cherished by all who knew him.

Born on October 21, 1949, in St. Augustine, Florida, to Bragg Hampton “Hambone” Odom and Nancy Cox Odom, Johnny’s family later relocated to the Savannah area, where he would spend the rest of his life serving his community with humility and compassion.

Sports were a lifelong passion for Johnny—playing, coaching, watching, and talking about them, especially the Ole Miss Rebels. Many of his happiest memories from childhood were spent on the ball field alongside his father, and later with his own son, both of whom shared in his love for the game. Johnny's encouragement, patience, and example will forever be remembered by his teammates and those he coached throughout the years.

After graduating from Central High School in 1968, Johnny attended the University of Tennessee at Martin on a baseball scholarship, later earning his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of Mississippi. A proud Ole Miss Rebel, he remained a loyal fan to the end.

Johnny opened his first pharmacy in Pickwick, Tennessee, guided by the motto “First to care, first to serve.” That wasn’t just a slogan—it was how he lived. He built a career around caring for others with wisdom, kindness, and genuine concern. It was not uncommon for Johnny to open the pharmacy after hours or deliver medicine late at night if a patient was in need. In 1998, he opened Michie Pharmacy, dedicating the latter part of his career to serving the Michie community.

To his loved ones, he was known affectionately as “Unc” or “Johnny O”—nicknames that captured his humor, steadiness, and warmth. But the title he cherished most was “Daddy.” The bond he shared with his son, John Reed Odom, was rooted in unwavering love and mutual respect. That love grew to include his daughter-in-love, Chloe, and his cherished grandson, Ace Hampton Odom. Being “Pop Pop” brought him immense joy, and he carried that role with pride and affection.

Johnny is also survived by his sister and lifelong friend, Joy Odom Lee; his nephew, Bo Lee; his nieces, Jaclyn Burdette (Jason) and Jennifer Leckner (David); his grand-nieces, Amelia, Emma Lee, and Vivienne Leckner; his grand-nephews, Chase, Alan, and Nick Burdette; his "Pharmacy Girls"; and a host of friends he loved like family.

He is now reunited in heaven with his parents and his dear sister, Junie Odom. Johnny adored his mother and father, carrying their wisdom and love throughout his life. His bond with Junie was full of laughter and quiet, unshakable closeness. There is peace in knowing their reunion is now complete.

Johnny lived a life marked by quiet greatness. He gave without being asked, helped without seeking credit, and loved without condition. His kindness ran deep—changing lives in ways many will never forget.

He was deeply respected—not only for what he accomplished, but for who he was. A man of humility, integrity, faith, and fierce love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.

The family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital at www.stjude.org