Melvin Odell Mallett died peacefully on Dec. 23, 2021, under the care of Lampasas Nursing and Rehab.
Odell was born to NB Bernard Mallett and Estelee Berry Mallett on Sept. 6, 1928 in Burnet County, where he lived his entire life until his recent illness.
He graduated from Burnet High School in 1946.
Odell married Mary Sue Fluitt on June 26, 1948. They shared 49 years together until her death in 1997. They had three children: Mike, infant son Donald Allen and Karen.
In November 1999, Odell married Ada Ruth Heine. Her children are Raymond (Bo) Heine, Linda Jackson (Don) and Debbie Furr (Terry). He enjoyed their children and grandchildren. They were married 16 years until her death in 2015.
Odell was a member of Lake Victor Church of Christ and is remembered for his Christian values, his strong work ethic, and his telling of stories and practical jokes.
He was owner of Burnet Construction for more than 50 years and was a farmer and rancher. He was named Farmer and Rancher of the Year in 1984 by the Natural Resource Conservation Service.
Odell was preceded in death by his two wives, infant son, sister Ruby Lee Sultemeir and husband Warren, and one brother, Chester Mallett.
He is survived by his son, Mike Mallett (Connie) and daughter, Karen Bills (Roy); grandchildren Tara Mallett, Cassidy Stapp, Brandon Bills (Dusty), Britten Meador (Jeremie) and Bret Bills (Kasha); and 11 greatgrandchildren. A sister-inlaw, Lawanna Mallett, also survives him.
Graveside service was held Dec. 27 at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Jenkins Funeral Home of Burnet had charge of arrangements.
