Odessa Mae East

Odessa Mae East, 93, of Pampa, passed away November 24, 2017 in Pampa. Celebration of Life graveside services will be 2:00 PM Thursday, November 30, 2017 at Fairview Cemetery with Pastor Ken Branum officiating. Services are under the direction of Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors. Odessa was born on July 31, 1924 to Mittie and John McDowell of Electra, Texas. Odessa attended and graduated from Harrold High School just west of Electra. Shortly after graduation she married the love of her life Edwin (Eddie) East in Oklahoma. Eddie joined the Marines and the couple spent time in North Carolina and California before he shipped out to fight in World War II. After the war Eddie and Odessa traveled and lived in various places before settling in Pampa. Once in Pampa, they would start their family and have two sons. Eddie preceded her in death in 1973. After Eddie’s passing, Odessa went to work for Coronado Nursing Center as the activities director, where she served for 18 great years before retiring. She and Eddie were founding members of Hi-Land Christian Church. Odessa loved the outdoors, loved feeding the birds, going to the mountains and talking about growing up in Electra. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Odessa was preceded in death by her parents, her two sisters, Vera and Bertie; her brother Jackie McDowell, step sister Hilma McCraken and step brother Raymond McDowell. Survivors include her two sons, Edwin Victor East, Jr. and wife Sandy of Highland Village, and by John East and wife Sabrina of Pampa; her three grandsons, Dr. John East, Jon East, and Brittin East, and granddaughters Cara Rems and McKinsie Childers. There are 12 great grandchildren, 6 nephews and 5 nieces. There will be a gathering of family and friends at the Pampa Country Club following the graveside services.