Odella Ruth (Simmons) Thomas

In the sacred stillness of Saturday, February 21st, 2026, as dawn lingered and heaven stood watch, our beloved Odella Ruth Simmons Thomas peacefully transitioned at 2:15 a.m. in the comfort of her home. Surrounded by grace and wrapped in divine love, she gently answered the Master’s call and was ushered into eternal glory.

Odella was born on July 1st, 1959, in Greensville County, to the late Ezell Simmons and Willie Bea Lee Rawlings. At an early age, she was baptized and united with Rocky Mount Baptist Church, where her joyful spirit and servant’s heart were evident in her faithful service to the Lord. She graduated with honors from Greensville County High School as a proud member of the Class of 1976.

For more than forty years, Odella shared a remarkable love story with her devoted husband, Grant Thomas. Their bond, rooted in friendship and strengthened through marriage, was a testament to enduring love. Hand in hand, they journeyed through life—supporting, encouraging, and cherishing one another every step of the way.

Odella dedicated many years of faithful service to her community. She was employed at Weldon Mills in Emporia, Virginia, from 1978 until 2009, where her diligence and integrity earned her the respect of colleagues and friends alike. She later continued her career as a Correctional Officer at Greensville County Correctional Center, serving honorably from 2009 until her health began to decline. In every role she undertook, Odella exemplified commitment, strength, and compassion.

A radiant light in the lives of all who knew her, Odella loved deeply and gave freely. She possessed a nurturing spirit that made her a mother figure to many, even though she had no biological children of her own. Dependable and wise, she was often the steady voice of reason and the helping hand extended in times of need.

Odella found joy in music and was especially fond of Whitney Houston, whose powerful voice and heartfelt songs she adored. Within her family, she lovingly kept her siblings, nieces, and nephews “in check,” always guiding them with firmness wrapped in love. Her brother John affectionately called her his “Financial Counselor,” trusting her sound advice and practical wisdom. She shared a special daily bond with her baby sister Barbara—their conversations filled with laughter, family stories, and sisterly love. True to Odella’s spirited nature, Barbara often had to choose her words carefully, knowing Odella might have the phone on speaker.

Traveling the world with her beloved Grant—whom she tenderly called “Love,” while he called her “My Love”—was among her greatest joys. Together they explored breathtaking destinations, including Aruba, the Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Honduras, the Panama Canal, and Key West and many more. One cherished family memory recalls their trip to Jamaica during the tragic events of 9/11; despite the uncertainty as air travel halted, they were blessed to return home safely on the final authorized flight to the United States.

Odella was preceded in death by her father, Ezell Simmons, and her dear brother, Marvin Simmons. She leaves to treasure her memory her devoted husband, Grant “Love” Thomas of Emporia, Virginia; her loving mother, Willie Bea Lee Rawlings of Emporia, Virginia; her brother, John R. Simmons (Shelby) of Henrico, Virginia; her sisters, Vivian Powell (Roger) of Ante, Virginia, Barbara Simmons of Henrico, Virginia, and Myriah Simmons of Henrico, Virginia; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends - each of whom carries a piece of her warmth, generosity, and light in their hearts.

Though her earthly journey has ended, Odella’s warmth, generosity, laughter, and unwavering love will forever live in the hearts of those she touched. Her life was a beautiful testimony of faith, devotion, and selfless love—a light that will continue to shine for generations to come.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Thomas' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

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to the family of Mrs. Odella Ruth Simmons Thomas.

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