Odell Cooper Smith was born on November 25, 1949, in Gastonia, NC to Thomas O. Smith, Sr. and Dolly Smith. He peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021, at Robin Johnson Hospice House in Dallas, NC.

Cooper's early life was spent in Gastonia, with his parents and siblings. He graduated from public schools and also attended some classes at Gaston College. He spent over 30+ years working for Central Transport where he retired many times.

Cooper loved his family. He enjoyed being the jokester to everyone, making those laugh in the room without even hardly saying anything. He also enjoyed cooking and helping his dad on the family farm. Cooper was very mild mannered, and quiet, but when he was around, his presence was known.

Cooper was preceded in death by his daughter Jennifer M. Smith.

Those left to cherish his memories are: his wife of 26 years, Catherine Smith of Gastonia, NC, his parents; Thomas Smith, Sr., and Dolly Smith of Gastonia, NC, mother-in-law; Hattie Mason of Gastonia, NC, two brothers; Randy Smith , Sr., Thomas O. Smith, Jr. (Patricia) of Gastonia, NC, his son; Dexter D. Smith of Fuerth, Germany, his daughter; Karen "Dawn" Smith (Donald) of Greensboro NC, four grandsons; Maurice C. Smith of Georgia, Brandon J. Smith of Charlotte, NC, Dequantis J. Smith of Georgia, Aquarius D. Smith of Greensboro, NC, one granddaughter; Aquasia B. Smith of Gastonia, NC; he also had four stepdaughters; Jamie (Dwindle) Patrick of Maryland, Kim (Darrin) Miller of Belmont, NC, Tamisha (Patrick) Minter of Gastonia, NC, LaToya McCollough of Maryland, and two stepsons; Derrick and Devon McCollough of Gastonia, NC, a host of nieces nephews, and other beloved relatives and friends.

Arrangement Are As Follow:

Private Graveside Service Armstrong Cemetery Gastonia, North Carolina

Date Friday, January 22, 2021

Public Viewing will be at the funeral home on Thursday from 3:00 until 9:00 P.M.