Michaeline I. Odom, affectionately known as Mike, passed away peacefully with her family by her side after a sudden decline in her health on October 6, 2024, at the age of 79 in Long Branch, NJ. Born on March 24, 1945, in Perth Amboy, NJ, and raised in Carteret, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Irene Hila. She was also predeceased by her sisters Doris Newshafer and Bernadine A. Blair, her beloved husband Bentley "Butch" R. Odom Jr., her father and mother-in-law Remell and Bentley Odom Sr., and her brothers-in-law Daniel and Andre Bellinger.

She is survived by her goddaughter Brendaly (Isaac) Portillo, her god-grandchildren Eliel and Annabelle Gomez of Pennsauken, NJ, Thomas Odom Sr. of W. Long Branch, Greg Odom (Marie) of Freehold, Donald Odom (Arlys) of Newark, DE, and Thomas Odom Jr. (Sarah) of Toms River, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Michaeline was a well know educator in the City of Long Branch Public School District and she is remembered for the love of teaching those students with special needs for over 35 years and becoming department chair.  Michaeline also wore a few other hats in her career. In the 1970's she was appointed assistant head teacher of the districts alternate school, that was based at the Iama. Simultaneously, she became the cheerleading advisor at the Middle School only to move up through the years to the varsity squad coach. She was also a member of various committees within the district as well as the state level. In the late 90's she took on the position of the districts Work/Study Coordinator which was a program funded by the state to help students at risk. In this roll she worked with students who had dropped out of school or were in jeopardy of dropping out and needed to work and continue their education. She was a blessing to many of those who knew her personally - she will be greatly missed.

In her spare time she loved to travel to Atlantic City with Butch, spend time with her family, read the newspaper, play word games and pamper herself to a nice relaxing day at the salon. Michaeline has requested all services to be held privately and at a later date her family will be holding a Celebration of Life. Details to follow.

Her parting words to all were: "To all those who knew her and dear to her to do something special for someone. Be kind to each other - love one another." 

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