Michael Peyton O'Dell, 31, of Greenwood, Mississippi, passed away on September 4, 2026.

Born on October 25, 1994, Michael Peyton O'Dell was the beloved son of Mike and Brenda O'Dell. Raised in Greenwood, Mississippi, Peyton graduated from Pillow Academy with Highest Honors before continuing his education at the University of Mississippi. There, he earned degrees in Accounting and Finance, formed lifelong friendships among his Sigma Nu Fraternity, and developed a devotion to Ole Miss that remained a central part of his life long after leaving Oxford.

Following his graduation from the University of Mississippi, Peyton began his professional career in accounting, where he applied the knowledge and discipline that had distinguished him throughout his academic journey. While he found success in that field, he ultimately discovered his true calling in the automotive industry. Known for his outgoing personality, strong work ethic, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Peyton built lasting relationships with colleagues, customers, and friends alike.

Peyton had many passions in life, but among the greatest were his family, Ole Miss, and American history. A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, he remained a devoted Rebel fan long after leaving Oxford. Those who knew Peyton knew that a conversation about Ole Miss football could last for hours. He followed the team faithfully through every season and loved discussing games, players, recruiting classes, and the future of the program. His excitement was contagious, and his loyalty never wavered.

Peyton also had a deep appreciation for American history and enjoyed learning about the people and events that shaped our nation. During a family trip to Hawaii, one of the highlights of the journey for Peyton was visiting Pearl Harbor. His fascination with history, curiosity, and respect for those who came before him were qualities that reflected his thoughtful nature and love of learning.

While he loved cheering for the Rebels and exploring the stories of American history, nothing brought him greater pride than cheering for his own girls, Isabella and Wynne, who were unquestionably the greatest joys of his life.

Above all, Peyton was a devoted husband and father. His love for his wife, Helen, and their daughters defined his life. He cherished every moment spent with Isabella and Wynne and found his greatest happiness in watching them grow. Whether at home, on family outings, or simply enjoying everyday moments together, Peyton's presence brought love, laughter, and comfort to those around him. His family was the center of his world, and he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to providing them with a life filled with love, guidance, and treasured memories.

Peyton's love of family extended well beyond his immediate household. He shared a special bond with the Hawkins and O'Dell families and deeply valued the relationships he maintained with grandparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Family gatherings, celebrations, traditions, and time spent together were among the moments he treasured most. He understood the importance of family roots and took great pride in the legacy of both the Hawkins and O'Dell families. To know Peyton was to know someone whose loyalty to family never wavered and whose greatest joy was being surrounded by the people he loved.

Peyton is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Gwin O’Dell; his daughters, Isabella and Wynn; his parents, Mike and Brenda O'Dell; his brother, Brantley and wife, Mary Kathryn; his nephew and niece, William and Kathryn James; his maternal grandmother, Martha Hawkins; his paternal grandparents, Harold and Sharon O'Dell; his mother-in-law, Teresita Scott; and his sister-in-law, Dr. Hannah Gwin.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Buddy Hawkins.

Though his life was far too short, Peyton's legacy of love, loyalty, kindness, and devotion will endure through the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a proud and devoted father, a cherished son, brother, grandson, uncle, cousin, and friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, especially within the Hawkins and O'Dell families that he held so dear. Whether discussing Ole Miss football, sharing his appreciation for American history, spending time with family, or making others laugh with his infectious personality, Peyton left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation for Michael Peyton O'Dell will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. John's Methodist Church in Greenwood, Mississippi. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation. Interment will follow in Odd Fellows East Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Anthony Ola, Jr., Adam Crick, Jackson Pannell, Tucker Arnold, Michael Huoni, Jr., Lou Adams, Jr., Parker Harris, Ellis Rustom, Michael Marcello, Clark Pittman, Charles Pringle III, Grayson Lamb, Collins Pace, Ben Hargrove, and Cooper Dunn.

Memorial Contributions: At the family's request, memorials honoring Peyton's life may be directed to St. John's Methodist Church in Greenwood, Mississippi, or to a charitable organization of your choice.

While Peyton loved cheering for the Rebels, exploring the stories of American history, and sharing time with family and friends, his greatest joy was always found in being a husband to Helen and a father to Isabella and Wynne. The love he gave so freely will remain a lasting gift to all who knew him.