Harold O'Dell, lovingly known to family and many friends as Pop, passed away on September 9, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on April 15th, 1942, Harold spent much of his life in Greenwood, Mississippi. He was the proud owner of Leflore Communications, a business he worked hard to build and operate with his son Mike, until his retirement. After retiring, Harold moved to Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, where he made his home on Greers Ferry Lake.

If there was one thing Pop loved more than almost anything, it was fishing. Around the lake, many knew him by his fishing name, "Slo Poke." Fishing was more than a pastime for Pop. It was a way of life, a source of peace, and one of the places where he was happiest. He loved animals, especially dogs and in recent years, his beloved cat, Callie. He loved history and reading books about World War II, mostly due to the fact that his father served in World War II. He also enjoyed watching history documentaries, football, boxing and old Western movies.

Some of his most treasured moments were spent sitting and talking with his grandchildren about history, the past, and the way things used to be. He shared a special bond with his grandson, Peyton O'Dell. They shared a love of history and football, and Peyton held a very special place in Pop's heart. Peyton passed away on September 4, 2026, just five days before his grandfather. Their family takes comfort in knowing they are together again, talking about football, history, and all the things they loved.

In Fairfield Bay, Pop found not only a beautiful place to live, but a community of people who became family. He made many, many special friends and some of his happiest recent times were spent with them at The Dock Bar and Grill. Those friendships meant so much to Pop, and he was blessed to have such wonderful people surrounding him. He made several trips each year to Cedar Key, Florida, a place that became very special to him. He made dear friends there as well, and those friendships became another cherished part of his life. Whether he was on Greers Ferry Lake in Arkansas, or visiting Cedar Key, Harold was happiest near the water, surrounded by nature and good people.

Harold is survived by his wife, Sharon O'Dell; his son, Mike O'Dell (Brenda); his daughters, Lori Box (Jeff) and Shannan Johnson; his grandchildren, Helen O'Dell (Peyton), Brantley O'Dell (Mary Kathryn), Hunter Box (Leslie), Kaity Higginbotham (Gray), Mary Michael Johnson, and Abby Kate Johnson; his great-grandchildren, Isabella O'Dell, Wynne O'Dell, William O'Dell, Kathryn James O'Dell, Clayton Box, Parker James Box, and Mary Cole Higginbotham; his sister Sue Goodman; and his many cherished friends who became family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Peyton O'Dell, who passed away on September 4, 2026; his parents, Thomas and Ruth O'Dell; and his brother, Tucker O'Dell.

Pop leaves behind more than a family. He leaves behind stories, traditions, lessons, and pieces of himself in every generation. He leaves behind his strength, his work ethic, his love of fishing and the outdoors, his appreciation for animals, his fascination with history, and countless memories of conversations that his family will treasure forever.

Rest easy, Pop. Your work here is done. The lake will never be quite the same without you.

A celebration of life will be held in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, on October 3, 2026, at Little Red Restaurant at Indian Hills Country Club, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., with a sunset lake barge ride to follow.

"In honor of his love for education and community, the family asks that donations be directed to Pillow Academy in lieu of flowers."