James Dean Abel

December 24, 1946 - January 9, 2021

James Dean, "J.D." Abel, 74, passed away on January 09, 2021 in Odessa, TX. J.D. was born on December 24, 1946 to James and Myrtle Abel in Chelsea, Oklahoma. J.D. married Rita Ann on May 21, 1991 in Las Vegas, NM. J.D. graduated from Kermit High School in 1965. He joined the Army and served his country for several years before being honorably discharged and becoming self-employed as a licensed Master Welder. One of J.D.'s many achievements was earning his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Sul Ross University. He is survived by his stepchildren, Rhonda Hodges, Cindy Kelly and husband Bert, Jeff Hodges and Sheila Williams; 7 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren; an Aunt and Uncle; numerous cousins, along with many close friends. He is preceded in death by his wife Rita Ann and his parents, James C. and Marie Abel, and his sister Sherry Saunders and her husband Mark Saunders.