In Loving Memory

Photo of O'Dell McCaskill

O'Dell McCaskill

July 21, 1953 — March 12, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved O'Dell McCaskill, who departed this world on March 12, 2026. Born on July 21, 1953, in the charming town of Kershaw, South Carolina, O'Dell's life was a testament to love, laughter, and the enduring power of community. He was 72 years old. The cherished son of Mamie Lou Chase and the late Ralph McCaskill, O'Dell was predeceased by his father and his uncle, Howard Chase. He is survived by his devoted mother, Mamie Lou; his loving children, Tyease McCaskill and Cory McCaskill; his treasured grandchildren, Tyrek Stevenson, Darien Stevenson, Nigel Freeman, Asya Stevenson, Journei Sawyer, Nakeem Freeman, Cori McCaskill, Chaynce McCaskill, and Kyrie McCaskill; and his two precious great-grandchildren. His dear sister, Crystal Jones-Wilson, and a host of relatives and friends also carry his memory in their hearts. In 1985, O'Dell found love and companionship in his marriage to Inga Townsend. Though they had no children from their union, their bond was a source of joy and strength throughout the years. O'Dell's educational journey began with his graduation from high school in 1973, after which he attended the Houston Woods Vocational School in Baltimore, Maryland. There, he honed his skills as a barber, a career that would define his professional life for the next 25 years. As a well-known barber in the Dolfield neighborhood of Baltimore, O'Dell not only shaped hairstyles but also the lives of those who sat in his chair, offering wisdom and friendship with his steady hands and warm smile. Outside of his professional life, O'Dell was an avid lover of R&B music, often losing himself in the soothing rhythms and soulful melodies that filled his days. His passion for music extended to DJing, where he was known to spin the "wheels of steel" alongside his friend Gregory Anderson, who preceded him in death. Their shared love for music brought joy and unforgettable memories to all who were fortunate enough to hear their sets. O'Dell's personal qualities were as vibrant as his interests. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories, a testament to the kindness and joy he brought to everyone he encountered. His absence will be deeply felt by all who were touched by his presence. A celebration of O'Dell's life will take place on March 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Hooper Funeral Home, located at 1415 East Fourteenth Street, Winston-Salem, NC. For those unable to attend, the service will be live-streamed at hooperfuneralhome.net. In this time of mourning, the family shares a special message: "Miss Me, But Let Me Go." As we bid farewell to O'Dell, we are reminded of the journey we all must take. Let's remember the joyous times we shared with him, holding on to those memories with glad hearts. The family gratefully acknowledges the many kind and beautiful expressions of sympathy and love shown during this hour of bereavement. May O'Dell McCaskill rest in eternal peace, his spirit forever a guiding light in our lives.