Thomas “Tom” Lee Early, 82, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence, Missouri, surrounded by the love of his family.
A visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2nd Street, Odessa, Missouri, 816-263-7577. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A private family inurnment will take place at Greenton Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Greenton Cemetery Association. Memories of Tom and condolences for his family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
Tom was born on July 15, 1943, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Richard Lee and Mary Margaret (Emanuel) Early. He graduated from Odessa High School in 1961 and remained a proud member of his community throughout his life. On November 28, 1965, he married the love of his life, Carrie Ann Geary, in Odessa, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 60 wonderful years.
Tom began his working career with The Odessan before moving on to Standard Oil. He later dedicated 25 years of service to MODOT in Odessa, retiring as a Senior Supervisor. True to his hardworking nature, Tom didn’t slow down in retirement and continued working with the Special Road District, always staying active and engaged.
Faith and community were central to Tom’s life. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church and was deeply involved in many local organizations, including the Odessa Saddle Club, Odessa Rodeo Club, and as a 4-H Horsemanship leader of the Mighty-MO 4-H. Along with a member of Odessa High School FFA. He also served as a assistant leader of Bible Drillers of the First Baptist Church, impacting the lives of many young people.
Tom found great joy in the simple pleasures of life-spending time with family and friends, showing and judging horses, coon hunting, and “piddling” around the farm. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with those he loved.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carrie Ann Early of Odessa; his son, Gene Lee Early and wife Kim of Odessa; his sister, Brenda McBride and husband Keith of Raytown, Missouri; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents.
Tom will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his devotion to his family and community, and the quiet, steady way he made a difference in the lives of those around him.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
