Emory Odell Irvin

Emory Odell Irvin, age 88 of Demorest, passed away Sunday, January 10, 2016.

Born in Habersham County on February 28, 1927, he was a son of the late Samuel Palmer and Mary Minnie Adline McAllister Irvin. Mr. Irvin was a U.S. Navy WWII veteran and was a member of Fairfield Baptist Church. He was the owner and operator of Odell’s Self-Service Grocery for over 21 years and later worked with his son at D & P Woodshop. He was Sunday School Superintendant for over 30 years and taught the Adult Sunday School Class. He enjoyed spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Arvil and Bonnie Irvin; sister and brother-in-law, Gennie and Reeves Humphries; brother-in-law, Truett Nicholson; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Varnie and Dewey Freeman; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James and Eulene Saxton.

Surviving are wife of 62 years, Vionie Saxton Irvin of Demorest; son and daughter-in-law, Danny and Pam Irvin of Cleveland; daughter and son-in-law, Sheree and Stanley McDougald of Cleveland; grandchildren and spouses, Mitchell and Jennifer Irvin of Demorest, Justin and Katie McDougald of Cleveland, Danette Irvin of Dillard and Samuel McDougald of Cleveland; great grandchildren, Abby Irvin, Mary Kathryn McDougald and Dannah Irvin; sister, Elizabeth “Lib” Nicholson of Demorest; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services are 2 pm Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at Fairfield Baptist Church with Rev. Keith Allison, Rev. Gary Heffner and Rev. Guy Lee officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with full military honors will be provided by the Grant Reeves V.F.W. Post # 7720, Habersham County American Legion Post # 84, Rabun County D.A.V. Chapter # 15, and the U.S. Navy.

The family will receive friends from 3-5 & 7-9 pm on Tuesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fairfield Baptist Church, 2236 Highway 105, Demorest, Georgia 30535 or to Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 195, Baldwin, Georgia 30511.

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com.

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.