O’Dell Reed, 81, born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, passed away in Wichita, KS on October 29th, 2023.
O’Dell Reed, was born on October 1, 1942 known as Big O, and lived in Muskogee Oklahoma the son of parents who were sharecroppers, until around 5 years old. Later, moving with all his family including the Reed’s, Crawford’s, and Irving’s to Hutchinson Kansas.
In Hutchinson He lived a life of humble beginnings attending McCandless Elementary School followed by Sherman Junior High where he finished 8th grade.
O’Dell’s first job that he loved dearly was shoe shining. Mr. Fuller took him under his wing and taught him everything he needed to know about shoe shining. Here O’Dell found a new passion and gained tips to help support his family. Next O’Dell became a dishwasher at Hutchinson Community College, there he adopted the name “The singing pot and pan man”.
O’Dell loved to sing so much that he made a career in entertainment singing with many groups including The Jades, O’Dell Reed and the Fabulous Cadillac’s, The Imperials, and King Midas and the Mufflers, with whom he entered The Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Liberty Hall of Fame in 2007. His talent, voice, and smile touched the lives of countless fans who have admired him for years. O'Dell's love for singing gospel and soul music inspired him to become one of the most iconic and beloved soul singers in the Hutchinson area.
Later on, O’Dell would retire from Jacksons Meat Market and move to Wichita, KS to be closer to his family. O’Dell Reed was a simple passionate man, he will always be remembered for his bright smile, energetic personality, mild nature, and caring ways. He touched so many lives and always remained positive until the very end. O’Dell will be forever missed.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for Friday, November 17, 2023, at 2:00 P.M., at the Dillon Hall/Encampment Building in Hutchinson, KS.
Everyone is encouraged to wear white.
O'Dell will be buried in the East Side cemetery with his mom per his request.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Affordable Cremations Plus of Wichita, Kansas.