Jack Odell Estes Jr. Obituary
With deep sadness, our family shares the passing of one amazing man. We are grateful for the love and support during this difficult time.
Jack "Odie" Odell Estes Jr. March 19, 1947 – May 15, 2026.
Jack "Odie" Odell Estes Jr., 79, of Sun City, AZ, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026. Born on March 19, 1947, in Danville, IL, Odie lived a life defined by devotion, resilience, humor, and an unwavering love for his family and friends.
Odie will be remembered as an easygoing, fun-loving, and generous-hearted man. He was a safe harbor and protector to those he loved—always willing to do whatever it took to care for his family or help a friend in need. With his quick wit, mischievous sense of humor, and ornery charm, he had a way of lighting up any room he entered.
The son of Jack Odell Estes Sr. and Norma Opal Estes (McCoy), Odie grew up in Danville. As a teenager, he worked at his grandfather McCoy's gas station and body shop, where he developed his love for mechanics and hands-on problem solving. He graduated from Danville High School in 1965 and was soon after drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a cargo vehicle driver throughout Europe.
After his military service, Odie attended drafting school and began his professional career as a draftsman with Howard Industries, Hyster, and Bohn Aluminum. Driven by determination and a desire to keep learning, he continued his education at Danville Area Community College and later at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
Odie went on to work as an engineer and maintenance supervisor with Wyman-Gordon and Krupp Gerlach, dedicating 27 years of his life to his work and colleagues.
In 1972, Odie met the love of his life, Debby Cross of Milford, IL. Together they built a beautiful life and shared 52 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and family.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Debby Estes; his children, Abby Estes, Libby Estes, and Schuyler Odell Estes of Phoenix, AZ; his grandchildren, Marli Perez of Irvine, CA, and Nation Queal, Corinn Perez, Averi Perez, and Izaak Odell Estes of Phoenix; and his great-granddaughter, Preux Payton of Irvine.
Odie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid pool and card player around the Danville area, a passionate golfer, loyal sports fan, and motorcyclist. In his later years, he enjoyed driving for Uber and telling stories about his passengers from all walks of life. He was also the dependable after-school chauffeur, always showing up for his children's and grandchildren's games, performances, and milestones. Whether on the sidelines, in the audience, or behind the wheel, his presence was steady, loving, and deeply felt.
A stoic man by nature, Odie faced life's hardships with quiet strength, accepting pain and challenges calmly and without complaint. His legacy of loyalty, humor, integrity, and unconditional love will live on in all who knew him—especially in the family he cherished so deeply.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared once arrangements have been finalized.
