Benjamin Lee Odom, passed peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the age of 81. A graveside service will be held for him on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Darlington Memory Gardens.

Born on August 7, 1944, in Darlington, South Carolina, to the late Alston Odom and Eva Knotts Odom, he graduated from St. John’s High School where he was known for being a great baseball player. He served in the National Guard and worked many years for Sonoco. After over 30 years of service as a crane operator, he retired from Nucor Steel, where he was known to some as “OT Lee.” During retirement, he could be found on his daily 5-mile walk, mowing and landscaping his yard, or watching sports on TV.

Lee is survived by his only child Susan (William) Weesner of Darlington, grandson Jacob Weesner of Hopkins, his brothers Danny Odom of Latta, Dusty Odom of Darlington, many nieces, nephews and their children, and his former wife and lifelong friend Barbara Jordan Odom.

Preceding him in death are his parents and his siblings: Hubert Odom, Margie Dennis, Weldon Odom, Myrna Asaro, Bobby Odom, and Barry Odom.

Lee had a competitive spirit and would make a challenge out of almost anything – a lively verbal debate, who will win a game, who walked the most miles in a week, who could open a piece of candy without the dog hearing, or even who had the lowest light bill. He lived a quiet, humble life marked by integrity, warmth, and unwavering love for his family. His strong supportive gentleness will be greatly missed but will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

His family would like to give special thanks and appreciation to his devoted caregivers: Debra Hopkins, Melissa Battle, Nashawah Morris and Janie Wheeler.

Memorials may be made in his honor to: Darlington County Humane Society at : www.darlingtonhumane.org or at 580 East Washington Street, Hartsville, SC 29550.