Patricia Aretes (Lee) O'Dell

Patricia Aretes O’Dell, 88, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Sunday July 19, 2026 while at her home in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. She was born on August 23, 1937 in Liberty, Texas to the late Walter Best Lee, Jr. & Tavie Aretes Ott Lee.

Left to cherish Pat’s memory are her beloved husband of over 70 years, Mr. William “Bill” Lamar O’Dell of the home; their sons, William L. O'Dell, Jr. and wife, Robin of Greenville, TX, Jeffrey S. O'Dell, Sr. and wife Melissa of Berryville, VA & David M. O'Dell and wife Stephanie of McKinney, TX; daughter, Ann Fairchild and her husband, Steve of Murrells Inlet; The apple of her eye, grandchildren- Walter Scharold, William L. O'Dell, III and his wife, Sarah, Amanda Bobbitt and her husband McKlane, Thomas O'Dell and wife, Rishawna, Austin O'Dell and wife Grace, Emily Bradley and her husband, Rich, Ashlee Cullen and husband Andrew, Jeffrey O'Dell, Jr. and his wife Kali, Annalee O'Dell, Tiffany Dwiggins and her husband Grady, Savannah Werba and husband Zach, Madison Mauricio and her husband Uriel, Marie Winker and her husband Andrew & Annette O'Dell; twenty one great-grandchildren-with 1 on the way…her sister, Ann Prince and her husband John of The Woodlands, TX; brother, Walter Lee and his wife, Harriet of Mission Viejo, CA; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins; a large, loving, extended family and many supportive friends and neighbors.

A gifted and skilled teacher, Pat shared her love of learning and passed along her lifelong appreciation for music to her children, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Her kindness, encouragement, unwavering support, and joyful presence touched countless lives.

Pat's greatest joy in life was her family! A devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, and cherished friend- she spent her life pouring love into those around her. Pat and her husband, Bill, shared more than 70 wonderful years of marriage, building a family that remained the center of her heart until her very last day. She was known for her bright, vibrant personality, welcoming spirit, and sincere compassion for others. Pat had a gift for making everyone feel at home and was deeply devoted to her children and grandchildren.

She loved staying connected with family and friends, whether through Facebook, games on her iPad, or simply keeping up with everyone's lives; she never missed an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of those she loved and always wanted the very best for them. Pat will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.

A Celebration of Pat’s life will be held on Saturday July 25, 2026 at 2pm at Lowcountry Community Church, (LC3) 4430 Murrells Inlet Rd, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576. The family will gather to greet friends following the service, within the fellowship hall.

At the request of the family and in lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Pat’s name. Memorial contributions may be made to LC3 at the address listed above, or to the charity of one’s choice.

To view these details online or to offer words of comfort through the online guestbook, please visit www.burroughsfh.com

Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services (843.651.1440) of Murrells Inlet is assisting the family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.