Shirley Rodman

Shirley Watson Rodman, 93, of Odessa, died Wednesday, December 8, 2021, in Odessa.  Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 7, 2022 at First Baptist Church – Odessa.

Born July 20, 1928, to W. A. “Johnny” Watson and Grace Huntley Watson, in Rising Star, Texas, Shirley grew up in the several Texas and New Mexico towns where the family was posted by Humble Oil Company. She graduated from Odessa High School and continued on to Baylor University, marrying Earl G. Rodman, Jr. on September 1, 1948. Their loving marriage flourished for 73 years, until her passing.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Earl; sister Winifred Boone of Midland; son George of Oklahoma City; son Allin of Gunnison, Colorado; daughter Rosemary of Dallas; and son Noël of San Luis Obispo, California. She was blessed with 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, who knew her as “Nana”.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Richard A. Watson, of Austin.

Shirley was known for appreciating and always bringing together family and friends. She found numerous opportunities for volunteer work, including many years in the Odessa Symphony Guild. Her interests included travel, music, bridge, Pan American Round Table, gardening, and good books. She developed her faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ as a member of First Baptist Church, in Bible study groups, as a Sunday School teacher, and in her life experiences.

Her family is thankful to our Lord for the years we had with Shirley.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to First Baptist Church – Odessa or an Alzheimer’s research center of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.