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Carol Lee O’Dell (Stypula), age 80, of the North Hills, passed away peacefully surrounded by
loved ones on April 12, 2026. A woman of deep faith and the heart of her family, Carol was a
fixture in the Sharpsburg, Shaler, and Ross Township communities. She was known for her
vibrant spirit, whether she was shouting “Hail to Pitt!”, rooting for her beloved Bucs, or serving
as a legendary "Swim Mom" cheering from the edge of the pool.
Carol’s warmth was felt by many, whether through the handmade baby blankets she lovingly
crafted for every new family addition or through her kitchen, where she produced what was
arguably the best pie crust in the county. An adventurous soul, she loved to travel and remained
active on the pickleball court. A long-time card club member, Carol enjoyed this time of joy and
friendship. She also had a passion for collecting, from Polish pottery to her extensive Beanie
Baby collection. Professionally, she was a meticulous and tireless bookkeeper and secretary,
bringing the same dedication to her work that she did to her faith and her family.
Carol was the beloved wife of the late David H. O’Dell and the cherished youngest daughter of
the late Clara and Joseph Stypula. She was the devoted, loving mother of Colleen Wetmore,
David E. O’Dell, and Kathleen Mest. Her legacy of love and loyalty lives on through her seven
grandchildren: Erin Wetmore Skinner, Kay Wetmore, Timothy Wetmore, Evan O’Dell, Owen
Mest, Jack Mest, and John Mest. She is also survived by her sister, Judith Beacon; her
companion, Samuel Bracon; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carol’s life on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Saint
Sebastian Church in Ross Township. A committal service will follow at the National Cemetery
of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville for immediate family.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Carol’s memory to Breakthrough T1D
or the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA).
A Memorial Mass to be held at Saint Sebastian Church (date and time to be announced soon)