Mary Martha O’Dell Elliott

June 24, 1935 – September 20, 2026

Mary Martha O’Dell Elliott, lovingly known as “Aunt Mary,” was born on June 24, 1935, in Gadsden, Alabama. She passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, at the age of 91.

Mary was a lifelong resident of Etowah County and was known for her loving heart, warm personality, and deep devotion to her family. On April 11, 1959, she married the love of her life, James Ormond Elliott, with whom she shared many wonderful years.

Mary spent many years working as a beautician, a profession that allowed her to form countless lasting friendships and touch the lives of many people throughout her career. After retiring from cosmetology, she continued serving her community by working several years with the Gadsden City Board of Education. She was a beloved lunchroom lady at Thompson Elementary and Disque Elementary, where she greeted children each day with her warm smile and caring heart. Many of those children, now grown, will fondly remember Aunt Mary and the kindness she showed them.

Above all, Mary loved her family. She always wanted the very best for everyone and took great joy in seeing her family happy and together. She especially enjoyed traveling with her brothers and sister, creating special memories that will be treasured by her family for generations to come.

Mary was a faithful member of Fairview Baptist Church, where her faith was an important and cherished part of her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Ormond Elliott; her parents, Sam O’Dell and Zonie Elenor Templeton; and her brothers, Sam O’Dell, Pete O’Dell, and Curtis O’Dell.

Mary leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, including her brothers, Gerald (Janice) O’Dell and Mike (Connie) O’Dell; her sister, Evie Jean Bearden; her daughter, Polly Anna Kay Davis and her husband, Keith Davis; brother-in-law, Carl Gary Elliott; sister-in-law, Janice Lee O’Dell; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, neighbors and dear friends.

Though Mary has departed this earthly life, the love she gave, the friendships she formed, and the countless memories she created will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her life was a blessing to her family, her friends, and the many people whose lives she touched along the way.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt and special thanks to Janice Crosson, Connie O’Dell, Sue Suggs, and Joyce Gargus, her dedicated caregivers, for the love, kindness, and care they provided to Mary. The family also extends their sincere appreciation to Hospice of Alabama for the compassionate care, love, and support they provided to Mary and her family during this difficult time.

Funeral Services

Funeral services for Mary Martha O’Dell Elliott will be held at:

Crestwood Funeral Home

2209 East Broad Street

Gadsden, Alabama 35903

Thursday, September 24, 2026

Visitation: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m.

Graveside Service: To follow Crestwood Cemetery.

Brother Sammy O’Dell and Brother Gary Williams will officiate the service.

Pallbearers

Scott O’Dell

Sammy O’Dell

Chris Suggs

Ronnie Guffey

Matt Roque

James Miller

“Her memory will forever remain a blessing to those who loved her.”