Joan Massey Odom

Joan Massey Odom, 81, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, in Darlington, South Carolina at Bethea Retirement Community. Born on December 15, 1943, in Chester, South Carolina, she lived a life marked by dedication to family, faith, and community.

A Graveside Service will be held Saturday at 3:00 at the Westview Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home. Rev. Kevin Massey and Rev. Jeff Cockrell will officiate. Family will speak to friends following the graveside service.

 Joan graduated from Hartsville High School in the Class of 1962. She went on to build a successful career as the office manager at the James Berry Company, where she worked for 20 years. Her commitment and professionalism left a lasting impression on colleagues and clients alike.

 A devoted member of New Salem Baptist Church, Joan found strength and purpose in her faith throughout her life. In her later years, she enjoyed the companionship and care provided by the staff at Bethea Retirement Community in Darlington. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the entire team there for their exceptional kindness and support during Joan’s final months. 

Joan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frankie Odom; her daughter, Kimberly Odom; her parents, William Lee and Ruth Massey; and her brother, Hiram Massey.

 She is lovingly remembered by her granddaughter Morgan Davis; great-granddaughter Braelynn Odom-Hughes; sister Diane Massey; nephew Kevin Massey and his wife Nickie; niece Leigh Summers and her husband Jamie, as well as special friends Ronnie Reaves, John Shore, Sarah Shore, Margie Hall and Lynn Odom. Joan was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed.