Rufus L. Odom

Mr. Rufus “Kojak” Odom was born on December 20, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to the union of Lyenell Odom and Gussie Lee Luckett Odom.

Rufus received his primary education at Harry E. Wood High School in Indianapolis, Indiana. He continued his education at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) where he studied Heating and Refrigeration. Mr. Odom furthered his education at Markett University as an Engineer and Indiana Vocational Technical College. 

“Kojak”, as he was called by his family and friends, will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In his leisure time, “Kojak” loved to ride his motorcycle, collect antique cars, visit car shows, as well as purchasing and rebuilding cars and motorcycles. “Kojak” also loved spending time with the love of his life and loving companion, Beverly and with his family and friends.

Mr. Rufus “Kojak” Odom departed this life on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at the age of Eighty-five years, 6 months, and 17 days. His, father Lyenell Odom; mother, Gussie Lee Luckett Odom; sisters, Yvonne Ballard and Rochelle Odom; brother, Larry Odom; grandson, Chip Lee Howard; and stepmother, Lula May Rainey Odom all preceded him in death.

He leaves to cherish his memory daughter, BerTina “Tina” Howard-Odom; love of his life, Beverly J. Steward; grandchildren: ShanTia Pearson (Rashad), Aaliyah Withers and LeeNae Withers; great-granddaughter, AniJah Foster; great-grandson, Kemet Lee Pearson; sisters: Anna Pearl Odom, Debra Odom (James Wilson Jr.), Lula Odom Jackson and Melzena “Niecy” Booker; brothers, Lynelle Odom and Nyenell “Tony” Odom; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, loving family, and friends.