Remembering an exemplar

This morning I got word that a close friend of the family, Joe Odom, had passed away. Mr. Odom was a fencing coach under whom I had the privilege of studying for several years in high school. He ran a fencing school in the inner city of Pittsburgh. However, at this school Mr. Odom taught more than just fencing. You see, Mr. Odom began this fencing school as a way of reaching out to the youth of his community. As a youth he had been denied the opportunity to fence because he was black. Fencing was a sport held exclusively for white people. Now that he was older, he was able to turn his modest success into a way for black youth in his area to experience the things from which he was excluded, fencing and higher education. While he taught fencing he also taught his students about respect, dignity, and responsibility. For Mr. Odom, the life lessons were just as important as the fencing lessons. Many of his students, myself included, were able to use fencing as a way to gain access to higher education. Some students even earned full scholarships. These scholarships allowed them to attain a level of education which was beyond their financial reach.

Mr. Odom's life stands as a testimony to the good in the world that can be done by one person. His dedication to the youth of his area changed lives for the better. His commitment to the success of his students was unmatched. He served as an exemplar to those in his school who were without role models in their own lives.

He passes away with my highest respect and admiration. Mr. Odom, you taught us more than we realized or deserved. Rest in Peace.