Mr. Alvin Glasco Odom III

September 18, 1944 - March 26, 2018

****NOTE: IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, the family requests sending contributions to: SHARE (The Society for History and Racial Equity, 471 W. South Street, Ste. 42 A, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007) or The Portage Senior Center, 320 Library LN, Portage, Michigan 49002 both which are very dear to Al. Alvin Glasco Odom, III passed away on March 26, 2018 in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born in Chicago, IL on September 18, 1944 to Alvin Odom, II and Alma Harvel. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Cherlyn. Al enjoyed an adventurous and fun-loving childhood, indulging his love of trains and spending hours of time with his many neighborhood friends. He attended Harlan High School in Chicago and soon after voluntarily enlisted in the Navy as a Seabee, where he could drive the big trucks with which he had always been fascinated. Al and Donna Hicks came together in a loving and devoted relationship in July of 1990 and married on November 24, 2001 in Park Forest, IL. Al loved being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine, so his days trimming trees and as a trucker were especially enjoyable. He spoke often of the wonderful experiences and delightful people he met during his days working at Johnson Howard and Woodwork Specialties in Kalamazoo. Al’s favorite pastimes and hobbies included playing pool and chair volleyball at the Portage Senior Center, reading from his extensive library of railroad books, and traveling with Donna. He is survived by his loving wife, Donna, daughter, Lynette, son Alvin IV (Tracey), and stepson, Michael Williams (Tiffany), grandchildren, Jalil Williams, Triana Jones, Khadija Williams, Kamaria Williams, siblings, Wilmon Ealy and Byron Ealy and a host of nephews, nieces, special cousins, and friends. There was something about Al that made him special to everyone. There was no way to know him without loving him.