All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

Clara Emogene “Jean” O’Dell

It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Clara Emogene “Jean” O’Dell, 83, of Ireland. She passed in the comfort of her home on Saturday, August 14, 2021.

Jean, or “Aunt Jean” as most knew her, was born in Duffy on December 19, 1937, the second of eight children born to the late Cecil and Myrtle McCartney Bleigh. She loved growing up “in the hollow” with her large family, working the farm, and helping care for her siblings. Jean often spoke of having to walk two miles to the one room schoolhouse and starting the fire to warm everyone. It was here that she made many lifelong friends and began her calling from God as caregiver to others.

At the age of sixteen, Jean moved to Weston where she lived with several families to care for their children and clean. While in Weston, Jean met and married her husband, Clarence Henderson O’Dell on November 13, 1954. Although she had no children of her own, Jean raised many as though they were hers.

One day she received a call from her cousin, Melvin Woods, asking if she and Clarence would move in to help care for his six children. Without hesitation, they selflessly gave up their own home to move to Buckhannon where they spent many years. During this time, Aunt Jean not only assumed the role of mother, but was also involved in many organizations. She was a 50+ year member of the Weston Eagles Club where she wore many hats. Jean worked the youth dances, organized fundraisers and was so generous of her time and talents that she was elected to several offices including, WV Eagles Club State President. She was also a member of the VFW Auxillary, a volunteer in Upshur County Schools, Upshur County 4-H, and the Red Hat Society.

When Jean’s mother became ill, she and Clarence moved back “home” where she lovingly cared for both her parents until their passing. Jean was not one to sit still and while living in Ireland she became an active member of the Ireland CEOS Club. She held several offices, headed up committees, and was always working hard behind the scenes with fundraisers and whatever was needed. Jean was elected Queen of the Irish Spring Festival in 1999 and proudly served the Ireland community. Jean loved working the senior citizens dinners and volunteering at Our Neighbor in Weston. She worked road clean-ups, dinners for funerals, and anything anyone called for help with, without hesitation.

Jean was a lifetime member of Elijah Chapel United Methodist Church until it closed. She was always the first to arrive to light the stoves and warm the church before the congregates arrived. Jean loved her small church family and held various offices and positions throughout her life. Aunt Jean was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, caregiver, and friend like no other. She was a wonderful Christian woman who was loved, and will be missed, and always cherished.

Jean will be lovingly remembered by six siblings whom she was very close to: Louise Lowther and husband, Glen, of Ireland, Shirley Messenger of Buckhannon, David Bleigh and wife, Mae, of Ireland, Darrell Bleigh and wife, Connie, of Ireland, Brenda Moore and husband, Jessie, of Weston, and Bobby Bleigh and wife, Shelly, of Weston; one brother-in-law, Larry Jeffries of Glenville; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and children she “raised” and loved dearly.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents: Cecil and Myrtle McCartney Bleigh; husband, Clarence O’Dell; one infant brother, Kyle Bleigh; one sister, Sandra Jeffries; and two brothers-in-law: Robert Hefner and Bernard Messenger.

Family and friends will gather for Visitation at Clutter Funeral Home – Alkire Chapel located at 190 Wildcat Rd. in Ireland from 12-2 p.m. on Thursday, August 19, 2021. Funeral Services will begin at 2 p.m. in the Alkire Chapel with Reverend Russell Furr officiating. Interment will follow at McCutcheon Chapel Cemetery in Ireland.

We, at Clutter Funeral Home – Alkire Chapel, are honored and privileged to serve the family of Clara Emogene “Jean” O’Dell. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ClutterFuneralHome.com. ​

My Buckhannon publishes obituaries free of charge as a courtesy to the family. Readers can support our publication by becoming a premium member.

Share this obituary:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Small Business Development Center names Lyla Grandstaff as new coach serving the Buckhannon area

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has appointed Lyla Grandstaff, an experienced business consultant and educator, as the new business coach serving Buckhannon and surrounding counties.

Upshur Parish House kicks off annual backpack program to support local students

The Upshur Parish House has launched its annual Back-to-School Backpack Program, seeking donations of new school supplies and hygiene items to help local students return to class prepared and confident.

Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur sets ambitious goals for growth and outreach

The Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur unveiled an ambitious multi-year plan to grow club membership, boost outreach through digital and in-person initiatives, expand fundraising, and increase community involvement and accessibility.

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield

Charles Wilson “Chuck” Canfield, beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for his kindness and humor, passed peacefully at home on April 5, 2025, leaving behind a devoted family and many friends.

Ella Margaret Moore

Ella Margaret Moore, a devoted Christian and active member of Reger United Methodist Church who leaves behind a large, loving family, passed away peacefully at age 91 in Buckhannon.

Post 7 to host recognize veterans Monday during Jr. Legion game, Sr. league team opens Area 2 Tournament on Tuesday

Buckhannon Post 7 will honor veterans during the Junior Legion team’s final home game Monday before the Senior League team begins Area 2 Tournament play Tuesday, following a challenging regular season.

Buckhannon City Council weighs options for spending $351,000 carryover

Buckhannon City Council will hold a special meeting July 15 to discuss how to allocate $351,000 of a $1.1 million budget carryover.

Buckhannon Sanitary Board Agenda: July 17, 2025

The Buckhannon Sanitary Board has released the agenda for its upcoming meeting on July 17, 2025.
Summer basketball

Summer league basketball wraps up week two

Week two of the Upshur County Summer Basketball League concluded with standout scoring performances and multiple games, including two forfeits by Country Roads Physical Therapy.

City council to review water board’s recommendation for new water treatment plant

The Buckhannon Water Board has recommended moving forward with a new water treatment plant and related infrastructure upgrades, sending a proposal to the city council for approval.

Gail Lovel Zickefoose

Gail L. Zickefoose, a dedicated educator, community leader, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully at age 83 after a long illness, leaving a legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to others.

Buckhannon City Council Agenda: July 15, 2025

The Buckhannon City Council released the agenda for its upcoming July 15, 2025, meeting.