Evan D. O’dell; Obituary, Death: It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Officer Evan D. O’Dell, a dedicated and compassionate member of the Henrico County Police Department, who passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, after a courageous fight with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Officer O’Dell was 36 years old, and his passing leaves a deep void in the community he served with honor and dedication.
His family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him are heartbroken by this loss, but we will forever cherish the impact he had on our lives. Evan was born on April 8, 1988, in Henrico County, Virginia, to his loving parents, David and Susan O’Dell. From an early age, Evan exhibited a strong sense of responsibility and a desire to help others. His compassionate nature and commitment to serving others led him to pursue a career in law enforcement, where he could make a tangible difference in his community.
Evan attended Henrico High School, where he was actively involved in sports and community service. His leadership skills, combined with his friendly demeanor and strong work ethic, quickly made him a well-respected figure in his school. After high school, Evan went on to attend the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice. It was during his time at VCU that Evan developed a deep passion for law enforcement and knew that it was the career path he wanted to follow.
After graduating, he joined the Henrico County Police Department in May 2011, eager to serve the community that had given him so much. During his early years in law enforcement, Officer O’Dell worked in various roles within the department, building a reputation for his professionalism, dedication, and kindness. He was known by his colleagues for his willingness to go above and beyond in the service of his community, often volunteering for extra shifts and taking the time to mentor new officers.
His passion for his work and his commitment to making Henrico County a safer place were evident in everything he did. In 2016, Officer O’Dell’s commitment to service took a new direction when he became a School Resource Officer (SRO) for Freeman High School in Henrico County. In this role, Evan not only provided safety and security to the students and staff, but he also became a trusted mentor and a positive influence on the students.
He had a unique ability to connect with young people, earning their respect and trust. Whether it was through offering advice, mediating conflicts, or simply being a reassuring presence in times of need, Officer O’Dell made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students. His approachable nature and calm demeanor allowed students to feel safe and heard, and he became a role model to many.
Throughout his time as an SRO, Officer O’Dell formed strong relationships with the staff and faculty at Freeman High School. He worked closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to ensure the safety and well-being of the students. His efforts went far beyond his role as a law enforcement officer; he truly cared about the lives of those he served and strived to make a positive difference in their futures.
His colleagues at the Henrico County Police Department and the staff at Freeman High School admired his professionalism, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his work. Evan’s commitment to public service extended beyond his career as a law enforcement officer. He was also a passionate volunteer, participating in various community events and youth programs.
He regularly volunteered his time to work with local charities, providing support to those in need and giving back to the community that had supported him throughout his life. Whether it was through organizing community outreach events or simply lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need, Evan’s selflessness and dedication to others knew no bounds.
In 2023, Evan’s life was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Despite his diagnosis, Evan approached his battle with the same courage, determination, and optimism that he brought to everything in his life. He continued to work as long as he could, maintaining his dedication to his community and his colleagues even as he faced his own health struggles.
His fight against cancer was a testament to his strength and resilience, and those who knew him were inspired by his courage in the face of such adversity. Throughout his illness, Evan’s family, friends, and colleagues rallied around him with love and support, and he never once wavered in his commitment to his community. His colleagues in the Henrico County Police Department and the school staff at Freeman High School remained by his side, offering their unwavering support and admiration for his strength and determination.
Although his time on earth was cut short, Evan’s impact on the people around him will never be forgotten. Officer O’Dell is survived by his beloved wife, Emily O’Dell, whom he married in 2015, and their two young children, Lily (6) and James (3). Evan’s family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in being a loving husband and devoted father.
He will be remembered for the countless ways he supported his family—through his love, his presence, and his unwavering commitment to them. He is also survived by his parents, David and Susan O’Dell, his brothers, Matthew O’Dell and Samuel O’Dell, and numerous extended family members, friends, and colleagues who will miss him dearly. A Celebration of Life for Officer Evan O’Dell will be held on January 18, 2025, at Henrico High School Auditorium (3020 Hungary Spring Rd, Henrico, VA).
The service will begin at 2:00 PM, with visitation from 1:00 PM. Family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by Evan’s kindness and dedication are invited to attend and pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Henrico Police Foundation or the Make-A-Wish Foundation, two organizations that were dear to Evan’s heart. Contributions can be made at the service or online.
As we remember Officer Evan O’Dell, we reflect on the incredible impact he made on his community. His legacy of service, compassion, and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. While his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to inspire us to serve others with the same selflessness, courage, and grace that he exemplified throughout his life. Rest in peace, Evan. You served your community with honor, and your legacy will never be forgotten.
