10/23/2026
In the days since our mother’s passing, our family has been surrounded by love. Thank you for every prayer, call, text, conversation, and act of kindness. Thank you, too, for your patience and for giving us room to grieve. I didn’t realize how much I needed that space until you lovingly gave it.
To my immediate family, especially my sisters, Evelyn, Phyllis, Cynthia, and Fellica, thank you for the love we continue to share as we walk through this together. To our cousins, extended family, and those near and dear to us, your presence and support mean more than words can express.
To our church family: you have been absolutely amazing. You made sure we were fed, and sometimes overfed. We may need to have a little conversation about all that chicken! 😂 More than anything, thank you for caring for us while respecting our need for space, even when your hearts wanted to be close.
To my fraternity brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, and to the Links, thank you for your love and support. To our friends near and far, we feel your care. And to the brothers of “KC,” those who know, know. Thank you for the love, the conversations, and the laughter along the way. Even in sorrow, laughter gives the heart a moment to breathe.
This experience has reminded me that loving people through grief includes giving them time to process it. Keep praying. Keep showing love. And allow room for the quiet moments when there are no words.
That is especially important for those in leadership. We may be accustomed to helping others carry their burdens, but we also need time to feel the weight of our own. Being a leader does not make loss easier or grief less personal.
Thank you for allowing me and our family to be loved, supported, and simply human during this time.
With love and gratitude,
Bishop Michael H. Odom Sr., Pastor Pam,
Michael, Chris, Jordan, and Shiloh
