October 5, 2026

OBITUARY: Deacon Odell L. Daniel

REGIONAL
Staff report

SPRINGFIELD — Deacon Odell L. Daniel, Jr., of Springfield, passed away unexpectedly Sept. 29, with his cherished wife, Catherine, by his side. He was born on July 14, 1944, in Pascagoula, Miss., the son of the late Odell L. Daniel Sr. and Joyce Harris. Odell was a graduate of Carver High School in Mississippi. He continued his education at Valley State University and Coahoma Junior College. He proudly served as a deputy sheriff in the Boston area and retired after many years of dedicated service.

Faith was an important part of Odell’s life. He served as a deacon in the Diocese of Springfield for many years and was deeply devoted to his faith and his church. Odell had a love for many things, including his New England Patriots. He enjoyed singing and playing the trumpet, but above all, he cherished spending time with his family. His faith, family, and the people he loved meant everything to him.

He leaves his wife of 32 years, Catherine Daniel (Flynn) of Springfield; his son, Richard Goodyear (Holly) of Middleburg, Fla.; and his sister, Sharon Smith of Va. He also leaves his sisters-in-law, Pauline Flynn (Robert Dodds) of Duxbury, Regina Flynn, and Marie Poulin of Weymouth, as well as many extended family members and dear friends. In addition to his parents, Odell was predeceased by his daughter, Catherine Agnes Hurley, his brothers, Ronnie and Odell; and his sisters, Catherine, Rachel Martin and Bertha McLeod and Corinne Fairley.  Also leaves his cherished dog Milo who was a constant joy. 

Calling hours will held on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 from 4-6 p.m. at Byron Keenan Funeral Home in Springfield. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m. at St. Michael’s Cathedral, 260 State Street, Springfield. Burial will be private. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Odell’s memory to Smile Train, P.O. Box 92631, Washington, DC 20090-6231 or smiletrain.com