James Oddo, 88, of Clermont, Florida, passed away on July 12, 2023. He was born on May 2, 1935, in Buffalo, New York. Jim was a steadfast and true individual, a devoted husband, wonderful friend, and a loving father. He always encouraged those around him and had a great sense of fun.
Jim is survived by his wife, Maryann Oddo, and his children, James Oddo(wife Emily Messina Oddo) of Leesburg, FL and Tina Wellman(husband Ernie) of Leesburg, FL, and his sister, Mildred Oddo of Buffalo, NY. He was also a beloved grandfather to Heather Perkins(Mike)Melissa Farmer, James Oddo(Elizabeth), Sarah Wellman, Anna Wellman, and Labon Wellman. Additionally, he was a proud great grandfather to Kayla, JJ, and Eliza. Jim was preceded in death by his wife Jean Oddo, his parents John and Jennie Oddo, his brothers John, Edward, Angelo, and his sister Carol.
Jim attended Lafayette High School in Buffalo, NY, and later served in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1958 as a Tin Can Sailor on the USS Laffey. After his military service, he embarked on a successful insurance career, serving the residents of Buffalo, NY, until he moved to Florida in 1982. In Florida, he became a sales manager for Prudential Life Insurance, serving Lake County. Jim recruited many talented agents who became like family to him.
A devoted member of the community, Jim worshipped at St. Paul’s Catholic Church and Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. In his free time, he loved traveling and exploring the world and also volunteering on the USS Laffey Association to help restore and protect the ship on its retirement at Patriots Point in Charleston, SC. As travel became more challenging in his later years, he settled down with his wife at Orchard Heights Retirement Home. There, he made numerous friends, served the community through volunteering, and ran various committees for activities and fundraising.
A Catholic Mass will be held in Jim’s honor at St. Paul’s Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the USS Laffey Association.
Jim Oddo will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his service to his country, and his commitment to his community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
