Odell Witherspoon

Odell Witherspoon, 80, of Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord, Wednesday, May 22, 2024. Born in Maryland on December 27, 1943, he was the son of the late Howard and Katherine Witherspoon. He was an avid member of First United Methodist Church Morganton. Odell graduated from Maiden High School and Appalachian Teachers College. He taught math at Western Piedmont Community College for 34 years where he served as the Head of the Math Department and Dean of Natural Science and Engineering. While at WPCC, he won the Excellence in Teaching Award in 1987 and also coached the women’s softball team. Aside from teaching, Odell was also a realtor for many years. He was an avid woodworker and enjoyed making crafts for others. He loved attending craft shows and could not wait to tell others about all the projects he had been working on. In addition to woodworking, Odell loved to garden and be outdoors. He was always so proud of his produce. Odell was a family man and never missed anything his children or grandchildren were involved in.

Odell is survived by his wife of 52 years, Mary Ellen Witherspoon; children, Leslie Carpenter (Jeremy), Jamie Sisk (Clay); daughter-in-law, Tanya Witherspoon; six grandchildren who were his pride and joy, Carson Witherspoon, Tucker Sisk, Tanner Carpenter, Allie Witherspoon, Courtney Sisk, Abigail Carpenter; sisters, Nancy Childres, Mert Hass (Kenneth); and a number of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In addition to his parents, Odell is preceded in death by his son, Chris Witherspoon, brother, Marty Witherspoon.

A celebration of Odell’s life will be held at 3pm, Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at First United Methodist Church Morganton with the Rev. Dana McKim officiating. The family will receive friends following the service on the front lawn of the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the FUMC Wood Ministry.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.