Odelia Simpson's Obituary
Decatur-Odelia Simpson, 97, of Decatur, departed from this life Friday, November 25, 2016 at McKinley Court in Decatur.
Odelia was born May 4, 1919 in Ripley, Tennessee, the daughter of Thomas and Addie (Hayes) Gwynn. She was joined in holy matrimony to Joseph Meriweather at an early age. From this union was born Adonia Meriweather-Jelks and Joseph Meriweather Jr. Odelia later married Thomas Simpson and they shared over fifty years together.
Odelia dedicated her life to the Lord and began as founder and pastor of Zion Tabernacle Church for approximately forty years. Ordained as a minister she touched, influenced, and changed many lives along the way. She was very proud to have received her GED. She was previously employed with Northtown Bank retiring with over forty years of service. Odelia loved to garden and cook her favorite recipes, including her famous caramel cake and any number of other special dishes.
Odelia leaves behind to cherish her memories her son Joseph Meriweather, daughter Adonia Robinson-Jelks and a number of siblings, including Tommie (Elmira) Gwynn, Harriet (Alonza) Green, Bessie Gwynn, Marion Gwynn Jr, Mary Gwynn, Joyce Gwynn, Herbert (Dianne) Gwynn, and Terry (Richelle) Gwynn, and a host of loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren dating back five generations, and many prayer partners and friends.
Odelia was reunited in Heaven with her parents, husband, six brothers, one sister, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Homegoing services to celebrate Odelia’s life will be 12 noon Saturday, December 3, 2016 at Maranatha Assembly of God Church, 555 W Imboden Dr. Decatur. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the services at the church. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery.
The family of Odelia Simpson is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Video Tribute for Odelia Simpson: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/FQ2773GQJGN6FL42
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