John Paul Odle

John Paul Odle, 86, passed away on November 30, 2025. He was born in Kenwood, Oklahoma, on October 31, 1939, to Clyde and Leona Burgess Odle. On December 29, 1961, John married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue, at his sister’s home—beginning a 63-year journey filled with deep devotion, friendship, and unwavering love. John was known by all as a kind, caring, and giving man, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. He was also a natural jokester who loved bringing laughter into the lives of others. A lifelong sports enthusiast, John especially enjoyed watching OU and OKC Thunder games, as well as cheering on his grandchildren in every sport they played. In his youth, he excelled as a basketball and baseball player at Eastern Oklahoma A&M and Northeastern State University. While at Eastern, he earned recognition as an All-American baseball player. John’s passion for athletics continued into his career as a basketball and baseball coach for Kansas Public Schools. Over more than 30 years in education, he served as a coach, teacher, and principal. He had a remarkable gift for connecting with students both in the classroom and on the field, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy in the lives of countless young people. Outside of work, John loved hunting, fishing, and singing. A devoted member of First Baptist Church in Kansas, Oklahoma, he led the church choir and enjoyed playing the guitar and harmonica. Above all, John cherished his time with family, especially with his beloved bride, Carolyn Sue. John is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde Odle and Leona Burgess Odle; sister, Patricia Duncan Scroggins; and brothers, Clarence Odle, Irvin Lee Odle, Tommy Gene Odle, W.M. Odle, and Jackie Wayne Odle. He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn Sue Odle, of Owasso, OK; daughters, Paula Kurth and husband Nelson of Claremore, OK, and Janette Fowler and husband Kyle of Spiro, OK; sister, Jane Ann Judkins of Fort Smith, AR; brother, J.P. Odle and wife Betty Jo of Kansas, OK; grandchildren, Kendall Hanning (Aaron), Tyler Kurth (Karlee), Chad Backward, Cale Backward (Jamie), Taylon Payne (Travis), and Trevon Fowler; along with seven great-grandchildren and many cherished nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Wasson Funeral Home from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Kansas Event Center, with burial to follow at Kansas Cemetery. In place of flowers, please donate to the Kansas Public Schools’ athletic programs.

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John Paul Odle

October 31, 1939 - November 30, 2025