Odell Porter

Odell Porter (85), born March 27, 1937, in Woodbury, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 25, 2023, in Midlothian, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his beautiful wife of 64 years, Betty Jo Collins Porter, who he longed to join in heaven; his father, William James Porter, and his mother, Stella Mae Dennis Porter; his brothers William Alford Porter and James Henry Porter; and sisters Sally Mae Prock, Mary Lou Lucko, and Frances Marie Baker.

He is survived by his sisters Ruth Porter Reed, Peggy Ann Davis, Patsy Ann Wiggins and brother, Samuel Lewis Porter; children Rickey Dell Porter and wife Michele; Lettia Jo Ledbetter and husband Alan; and Tracy Lynn Harris and husband Keith; grandchildren Dustin William Ledbetter and wife Christa Danielle; Derek Alan Ledbetter and wife Samantha Rhea; Samantha Danielle Ledbetter; and Garrett Wayne Harris; great grandchildren Chelsea Jo Ledbetter, Reagan Alice Ledbetter, Travis William Ledbetter, and Stella Rhea Ledbetter.  He was also dearly loved by many nieces and nephews.

Odell left his work on the family farm in Covington, Texas to pursue a better job in Fort Worth.  He married Betty on October 20, 1956, in Itasca, Texas and started his 31-year career with Bell Helicopter Textron in 1966.  He was proud of the work he did at Bell, and one of the helicopters he helped build is on display in the Smithsonian Institution’s Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.  He and Betty moved to Burleson in 1963 and enjoyed welcoming dear friends and family into their home for many occasions which always included a good game of 42.

“Here is a trustworthy saying:  Whoever aspires to be an elder desires a noble task.” 1 Timothy 3:1 Odell’s joy in life was serving faithfully as an elder in the Burleson Church of Christ for nearly 40 years.  He led responsibly and served the church with love and care.  He was a good listener, counselor, and storyteller.  The eldership was an integral part of his life and, as 1 Peter 5:4 says, “…and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.”

After Betty’s death, Odell moved to Midlothian to live with his daughter Lettia and her family who selflessly loved and cared for him.  The family would like to thank Dr. Michael Williams and his staff, Cindy, Debbie and Liesa, for every immediate need that they met and for their constant care for our beloved Dad in his latter years.  We were also blessed by Keisha, Anita, and Shanna of Divinity Hospice and their compassionate care for Dad in his final days. We would like to make a special thanks to Kristie Adams with Right at Home Care for spending quality time and taking special care of our Dad.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Burleson Church of Christ in Odell’s name are appreciated.