Odell Elwood Choates
December 11, 1931 - April 12, 2024
Odell Elwood Choates, was born on December 11, 1931 to the late Oma Edwards and Bert Choate Sr. in Street, Maryland. Odell was known by many names such as (Oates, Coyote, Quiet Storm, and “Choatey”). Odell was peacefully called home and transitioned from this life on April 12, 2024 at his home in Aberdeen, Maryland.
Odell was educated in the Harford County Segregated School System. During his elementary years he gathered in the one roomed Asbury Colored School in Churchville, MD having to walk over a mile to reach his final destination. His walks made easier when accompanied by his loyal dog German. He later attended the Bel Air Colored School and then transferred to Central Consolidated School where he was a part of the graduating class of 1951.
Odells work ethic was unmatched; as a child he took on odd jobs chopping wood and cracking walnuts for the Coal family. As a young man he worked alongside his brother Bert at the Cannon House in Churchville, MD. He began working at the Edgewood Arsenal where he began as an ammunition handler making $0.68 an hour after highschool. In February of 1953, he was drafted by the United States Army to serve during the Korean War and was later honorably discharged with medals for Good Conduct, National Defense, Korean Service, and United Nations Service. He spent 37 years working for Environmental Hygiene Agency as an animal caretaker until his retirement; during his employment he received several outstanding superior work certificates and a mention in the “Evening Sun” newspaper. Restless with retirement he joined the transportation department at Glen Meadows Assisted Living for an additional 13 years.
Odell and Marva were united In Holy Matrimony, August 3, 1966. They were blessed to have celebrated a total of 56 years together. He was a faithful and supportive husband to his wife. and an impactful grandfather, and great-grandfather a.k.a “Poppop”. Always instilling in the children to be the best version of themselves and to honor God. He loved to be around his family and visited them often both in and out of state. He regularly attended family reunions, sports activities, graduations, dance recitals, and birthday celebrations.
When Odell wasn’t working he could be found traveling with his soul mate Marva via roadtrip, plane, or cruise. Over the years they embarked on over 30 cruises to various islands. Track and field was a favorite sport, he attended the Penn Relay track meets yearly without fail. Camping, fishing, swimming, and sharing“Westerns” with his sister-in-law Judith. He sang, and often reminisced on his days as part of the“Melody’s” singing group and their performance at the Apollo Theatre.
During his upbringing, Odell attended Macedonia church in Sparta, NC. After relocating to Maryland, he attended Union United Methodists Church. In 1983 during a Zion Temple Church revival, Odell was baptized In Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost. He served under the leadership of Pastor Dorothy V. Barnes, Bishop Mark A. Moore, Sr., and most recently Dr. L. LaMont Turner. Over his years of faithful service he served on the trustee board, and was appointed to Deacon within the church. He loved hearing the word of God and attended bible study regularly. He would often re-read his notes and comment to Marva “What a powerful lesson today”. He and Marva traveled to many PAW conventions and church events.
He leaves to cherish his beloved memory: the love of his life and wife of 56 years, Marva; Sister Thelma Robinson, Baltimore, MD; 2 Daughters: Mary Choates-Workman (Glen), Baltimore, MD; Angela Choates, Aberdeen, MD; 4 Grandchildren: Evan Workman; Kalen Workman; Camille Workman,; Tierra Kellow (Kasey); Sincere King; 4 Great Grand-children: Daequan Cross, Serenity Kellow, Saraya Kellow, Symphony Kellow; God Children: Lazette Ringgold-Kirksey, Macon Tucker III, George Twilley Jr, Deja Braxton; Sister-In Law, Judith Davis, Aberdeen, MD; Caroyln Ringgold, Aberdeen, MD; 3 brother-in-laws, Dale Harris Sr. (Mary), Douglass Ringgold (Barbara), Aberdeen, MD; Mark Ringgold (Tara), Aberdeen, MD; and host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his brother Bert William Choate Jr. and sister Bertha Marie Oliver Choate.
Funeral Services:
First Visitation - Friday, April 19, 2024 at 5:00PM - 8:00PM
City of God Highway to Zion
1304 Business Center Way
Edgewood, MD 21040
Second Visitation - Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:00AM - 12:00PM
City of God Highway to Zion
1304 Business Center Way
Edgewood, MD 21040
Service - Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 12:00PM
City of God Highway to Zion
1304 Business Center Way
Edgewood, MD 21040
Internment
Harford Memorial Gardens
3839 Aldino Road
Aberdeen, MD 21001