Deacon Odell Bookert

Deacon Odell Bookert 84, was born June 21, 1932 in Columbia, SC to the late Jim and Martha Alexander Bookert. Odell was a educated in the public schools of Richland County and was a 1951 graduate of C. A. Johnson High School. He continued his studies in the United States Army and graduated from the North Eastern Signal School with a diploma in Field Radio Repair. Subsequent to his honorable discharge, he enrolled at Midlands Technical College and continued studies in electronics, with a specialization in television repair. He was licensed by the state of South Carolina as a physical therapy assistant and retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in that position after 28 years of service. He joined Temple Zion Baptist Church at an early age and became an ardent and Sunday school scholar. He was chosen as superintendent; served faithfully in that capacity for many years and served on the Usher Board, the Musical and Jubilee Choirs. He was a member of the Deacon Board and was honored to serve as its Chairman for many years. Deacon Bookert's passion was for "shape note" singing. Over the years, he taught this style of Jubilee singing to many choirs in numerous churches throughout the area. He served more than 50 years in the City Baptist Jubilee Choir in many positions as President, Choir Director, and Advisor. Under his tutelage, the City Baptist Jubilee "Special Choir" was founded and continues to grow and reflect his teachings. Deacon Odell was united in Holy matrimony to his lifetime partner, Mrs. Louise Bookert, who preceded him in death on Sept. 26, 2013. From this union, two children were born. Left to cherish precious memories are: a daughter, Claretta (Biliameen) Oshodi, a son, Anthony Bookert; four grandchildren, Shadia, Abolore and Raheem Oshodi , Antoinette (Terrence) Davis; 6 great-grandchildren; one brother, Reubin Bookert, two sisters ,The Reverend Allene Griffin and Violet Aiken; a sister-in- law Mazelle DuBard Brown, a number of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends Funeral services for Deacon Odell Bookert will be held Noon, Tuesday, August 16, 2016 at Temple Zion Baptist Church, 1174 Heyward Brockington Road, Columbia, SC 29203. Interment to follow in the Zion Chapel Baptist Church #1 Cemetery. Public viewing will be Monday, August 15, 2016 from 3-8 p.m. with visitation from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Deacon Odell Bookert

June 21, 1932 - August 11, 2016