Frank Odell Hairston Obituary (1930

Frank Odell Hairston, born on October 17, 1930 in Bassett, Virginia, departed this earthly life on April 8, 2020, at the age of 89. He was predeceased by his parents James Isaac Hairston and Bertha Gallant Hairston; his wife, Annie Pearl Graves Hairston and son, Bishop Ralph Donnie Graves; sisters, Bessie Snell Hairston, Ruby McGee and Mildred Holt, brothers, Lester, Columbus and Pete Hairston. Mr. Hairston, a Korean War veteran, earned his Associates Degree at the University of Bridgeport and retired from Jenkins Valves Company. Frank Odell was a faithful member of Trinity Temple COGIC and there served as a musician. Additionally, he was a musician at other Connecticut churches, which included Ebenezer Gospel Assembly, Full Gospel, Miracle Temple and Gethsemane Church in Bassett, Virginia. Furthermore, he served as the past Vice Treasurer of the Thomas A. Dorsey National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. Brother Odell introduced gospel artists and preachers to the Bridgeport area, including Mother Ines Choates, Rev. Richard "Mr. Clean" White, Dorothy Norwood, Edwin Hawkins and Twinkie Clarke. Brother Odell is lovingly accredited with driving the infamous "yellow bus" full of young people to Holy Tabernacle Church for youth events. Frank Odell Hairston will be especially remembered as "Uncle Odell" to many people he encountered. He enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, gardening and preparing delicious food. He had a warm smile, generous heart and compassionate spirit. Loving memories will be cherished by his sisters, Claudia (Mae) Preston, Bertha (Byrd) Stokes, brothers, Leonard P. Hairston, Lazarus (Barbara) Hairston and Elijah "E.C." (Mary) Hairston, many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Services will be Private