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Celebrating the life of

Philip Wayne O'Dell

July 13, 1954 - November 01, 2024

Philip Wayne O'Dell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Philip Wayne O’Dell. Born on July 13, 1954, in the coastal town of Broadstairs, England. He completed his life’s journey peacefully on November 1, 2024, All Saints’ Day, at his family’s home on Tybee Island. 

Philip was blessed with two families: the O’Dells and the Chus. When his father, a career Army officer, was deployed to Vietnam, the O’Dells prepared to move to Indiana. Philip was only ten years old, but he was precocious. After concerted lobbying, he secured his parents’ approval to remain on Tybee with Mr. T.S. Chu and his family. The Chus began as his guardians but soon grew into Philip’s family.  

He was predeceased by his father, Carl R. O’Dell. He leaves behind his mother, Diane Horrell; his brother, Carl R. O’Dell; and his sister, Jacquiline O’Dell Klueh (Steve). He was also predeceased by T.S. Chu and May Chu and is survived by “Mom” Mola Chu Jung, Terese Jung, and his niece, Maddie Wilson.

Philip was a humble man with a generous heart. He lived with integrity, a testament to the lessons learned from his mentor, T.S. Chu, and the Chu family. He was a fixture in the Chu enterprises, where he learned the values of hard work, loyalty, and entrepreneurship. Building on those lessons, he quietly enjoyed a successful and varied business career that included serving as
the General Manager of several radio stations before eventually owning his own station. His real estate investments included an Arby’s franchise, Captains Quarters Apartments, Mercer Shopping Center, and numerous other properties. His ventures also took him to Florida, where he was the Managing Partner of The Emerald Shores Hotel in Daytona Beach and owned a horse ranch in Ocala. In addition to his business ventures, Philip was also engaged with his community and state. He played a very active role in Congressman Lindsay Thomas’s first campaign victory, which led Senator John Glenn to personally ask Philip to head the Senator’s presidential campaign. 

Philip served on the Tybee City Council. He was also instrumental in saving the historic Tybee Island Theater from demolition. He used his radio station as a base to launch Silent Witness, a crime-fighting program that provided a safe way for private citizens to share confidential tips with the police. 

For six years, Philip bravely battled multiple cancers, demonstrating a strength and courage that inspired all who knew him. In support, his friends wore bracelets printed with the catchphrase “PHIL STRONG.”


He ordered a new model C-8 Corvette, his optimism serving him well. Philip’s car was one of the first off the 2020 production line, and he picked it up at the factory. Before leaving the parking lot, he wrapped the vehicle with “Victory Over Cancer Tour” and set off to share a story of hope with other cancer patients and their families. Many responded to the car by touching it for good luck. He never realized how many lives he would connect with—how many strangers would become friends, friends who would open doors to their homes and hearts. After his return to Tybee, dozens continued to reach out to him for words of encouragement. For younger cancer patients, he created the “Dr. Phil daBear” Outreach Program. He purchased hundreds of plush bears and personally packaged them with his prescription attached: “Give two hugs, twice a day or as needed for faster recovery.” Throughout his battle with cancer, he remained grateful to all who cared for him and kept the fire of his indomitable spirit alive.

Visitation will be held on Friday, November 8, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., with the funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on Wilmington Island, GA. 
Burial will take place at Greenwich Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in memory of Philip O’Dell to Daughters of Mary of Nazareth, Saint Joseph of Nazareth Convent, P.O. Box 690789, Quincy, MA 00269, or Saint Michael Catholic Church, 802 Lovell Ave, Tybee Island, GA 31328.

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

We are so sorry to hear about Phil passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you'll. Jackie and Charlie

- Jackie and Charlie Brown, Tybee Island/Metter, GA

A candle has been lit!

Not only did Phil fight long but also Phil fought hard. Phil's strength, courage, and determination was an inspiration to all of us he left behind. Phil will be sorely missed. May the beautiful memories of Phil bring you peace and comfort. Our deepest condolences, Ping and Diana Chu

- Ping and Diana Chu, Wilmington Island, Ga

Phil was a good man, a true friend, and an endearing soul. His positivity and grit are blessed legacies. His memories are ours eternally and his mark on our lives everlasting. Heartfelt sympathies and friendly smiles for his cherished family and many friends.

- Randal Morris, White Oak, GA

Sending love to the Chu family and all of my Tybee family. Phil was a great guy who was always doing what he could to help anyone and make Tybee the place we love. He will be missed.

- Carlin Dixon, Honolulu , HI

As Phil's friend and next door neighbor, we got to see first hand Phil's ambition, courage, and generosity. My family will truly miss Mr. Phil, his cool cars, crazy projects and his amazing stories! Rest in Peace, friend. We miss you already.

- Allison Mol, Savannah, Ga

I already miss Phil, no one fought harder than Phil these last few years. He was a great business partner and better friend! Bill Rusher

- Bill Rusher, Charleston, SC

Mola There are no words worthy of expressing my sorrow of your family’s loss and the loss of one my oldest and dearest friends. I have known Phil for over 40 years and have never known anyone whom I loved, trusted and admired any more than him. He was a truly amazing man who loved life-especially his family and countless friends. A kind and gentle soul who was also, courageous, adventurous and generous. He helped so many people while never expecting anything in return. He was the bravest and most positive person I’ve ever met. I will miss his positive attitude, warm smiles, and ‘never give up’ attitude. He fought the good fight while never complaining. Every time I asked him how he was doing, his response was the same, “I’m doing great, how are you?”

- Ben Farmer, Savannah, GEORGIA

Phil was an important friend to myself and my family. He was what my brothers and close friends would say he was part of our brotherhood. He befriended by brother Jason, got him working on his side projects, which was very important for Jason during this time of his life. For me, nothing but positivity and fun, Phil had a great outlook on life, exuded a lot of energy. He was a VERY hard worker as well was strong as two mules. He fought hard over the last several years, and gave me a role model to emulate. I really appreciate all the time I had with Phillip. I will miss him very much. Condolences to Mola and the families.

- David Solomon, PFLUGERVILLE, TX

We’ll miss You Uncle Phil

- Jordy Trainor , Denver , CO

Phil O’Dell, was a man of innumerable talents and abilities, and yet, he was absolutely humble and self-effacing to a fault. I feel lucky to have called him “friend”. There is a saying that true genius is not the ability to hit the target that no one else can hit, but rather, to see the target that no one else can see. That was Phil. But Phil was not just a dreamer, but a man of accomplishment and action. Last month, Phil called and told me he had been given only a few days to live. He told me in a strong and resolute voice "not to be sad….he had lived a wonderful life, and that he had been lucky and had accomplished everything he ever wanted to do". Phil O’Dell was the toughest, bravest, and kindest man I ever met. Without a doubt, the world is poorer with the passing of Phil O’Dell.

- David Rogers, Statesboro, GA

What an amazing person to know these past two decades as I grew up. It’s been a privilege to know Phil and consider him part of the family. He’s such a strong person and his character always showed it. Now he can finally rest after this long battle.

- Grace Solomon, Pflugerville , Texas

Dear Friends , So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers with everyone at this difficult time. Regards, Earlie M Horne III and Martha D. Horne

- The Horne Family, Savannah, GA

Phil was a wonderful and fun friend for the many years we have been friends! He was always interested in many varied things and was open to new subjects any time! Flying was a joyous interest of Phil’s and he spent many hours of time sharing thoughts and ideas! Certainly there will be a void with many fond memories and much love left for his many friends and family! May God comfort all of us in this time of sadness!

- Joe Harrelson, Rincon, GA

A candle has been lit!

Philip was a man I admired and have known since childhood. Our fathers were best friends and joined the US Army at the same time. Philip and I have been step-siblings for nearly 25 years. He was a kind man to his family. When I visited Savannah, he was an excellent tour guide, and his love for the community definitely shone through. He will be missed.

- Carrie Horrall Smith, Sullivan, Indiana

I was so sorry to hear of Phil's passing. He was one of the nicest fellows I've known. So kind and generous to everyone, he always greeted you with a smile. Go with God my friend.

- Matt Sutton, Blue Ridge, Georgia

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
912-898-0900


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