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Sharon
Odum
Aug 22, 1960 — Nov 14, 2025
Marshall
Sharon Darnese Polk Odum, was born August 22, 1960, in Henderson, Texas to the late Robert Lee Polk and Julia Mae Helms. She was adopted by her grandparents (Frank C. Helms and Versie Lee Helms)at the age of 2yrs old.
From childhood, Sharon was known for her bright spirit, energetic personality, and joyful presence. She attended Henderson High School, where she participated in gymnastics and track, excelling with the same determination and enthusiasm that would follow her throughout her life.
At the age of 17, Sharon suffered a significant head injury that marked the beginning of serious health challenges. Despite the obstacles this brought into her life, she continued to fight daily with remarkable resilience. Her positivity, strength, and joyful outlook allowed her to remain very fashionable, vibrant, and full of life. These qualities contributed to a beautiful quality of life, enabling her to inspire all who knew her to never give up, no matter the challenge.
Sharon later married Gregory E. Odum, and from that union were born three beautiful children—Marcus Odum, Gregory M. Odum, and Erica Odum Johnson—who were the absolute joy of her life. She dedicated herself to motherhood and found her greatest happiness in caring for her family and serving her GOD Jehovah.
Sharon devoted her life to serving Jehovah God wholeheartedly. She treasured every opportunity to speak to others about Jehovah's promises and to offer encouragement and spiritual comfort to others.
Sharon had a gentle, welcoming spirit that made everyone feel at home. She opened her doors—and her heart—to all. Visitors knew they would be greeted with warmth, laughter, and a plate of the sweetest grapes, cherries, or watermelon she had available. Her big, unmistakable laugh filled every room, and those who were lovingly called "lemon head" knew they held a special place in her heart. She loved to dance and was especially well known for her playful and unforgettable ability to "do the robot."
Sharon fell asleep in death on November 14, 2025, after a lifetime of devotion, kindness, and unwavering faith.
She leaves to cherish her memory, her three children and their spouses—Marcus Odum (Lisa), Gregory Odum (Aquendolyn), and Erica Johnson (Quinton)—all residing in Marshall, Texas; her beloved grandchildren Tiandre, Tiara, Taylor, Alicia Skynae, Ladorian, Mikiah, Kaleb, Makenzie, Ireland, Gregory Nicolas, Quinton Javin, Aiden, Isabel, Ivy and Kayla; her two precious great-grandchildren; her siblings Debra Wilson (Robert), Joe Tatum, James Tatum, Patsy Tatum Farris, Danny Reedy (Dawn), Lavora Zackery (James), Tammy Johnson, Allen Reedy (LaTasha), Teresa Haynes (Marcus), Pamela Sanders, Veronica Crosby (Obie), Andrea Thompson (Brian), Phillip Moss, Kevin Moss, Ulanda Wilson (Joey); aunt, Dorothy Walker and special friend, Jacqueline Young along with a host of relatives and dear friends who will forever treasure the love she shared.
Sharon was preceded in death by her biological parents, Robert Polk and Julia Mae Helms; her adoptive parents/grandparents, Frank C. Helms and Versie Lee Helms; and her sister, Paula Bradley
Sharon's legacy of love, laughter, hospitality, resilience, and faith will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in the hope and promises she held dear.
Saturday
Chapel of Downs Funeral Home
10:00 - 11:00 am
Saturday
Chapel of Downs Funeral Home
Starts at 11:00 am
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