Odis Earl Mcgreger

Odis Earl McGreger (May 13, 1948 – September 5, 2025) entered into rest surrounded by his loving family on September 5, 2025. Earl was a man who found joy in life’s simplest gifts and gave of himself generously to everyone he met. Born and raised in Vardaman, he was the son of the late Odis Ezekial McGreger and Geraldine Clark McGreger. A 1966 graduate of Vardaman High School, he was a standout quarterback before serving his country in Vietnam. He came home to build much of Calhoun County, brick by brick, with his brother Charles, before later devoting himself to farming with his friend Paul Norman Edmondson. He was also a longtime member of Vardaman First Baptist Church, where he served faithfully in the men’s ministry, Vacation Bible School, and AWANA programs.

Known for his quick wit and playful smile, Earl had a way of making friends feel like family and family feel cherished beyond measure. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his love extended outward to nieces, nephews, and neighbors alike. An athlete in his youth and a hard worker all his life, he remained the steady rock of his family and a pillar of his community.

He taught his children to love simple country joys, from Sunday breakfasts with soppin’ sorghum to evenings around the fire pit, and he cherished every moment spent “piddling” with his grandchildren. Even in later years, as Alzheimer’s dimmed parts of him, the sight of a construction site could still rouse his old energy and spirit for work.

He is survived by his wife, Nita Murphree McGreger; his daughters, Nicole McGreger Thomas (Elton) and April McGreger (Phil Blank); his son, Preston McGreger (Candi); his brothers, Johnny McGreger and Sam McGreger (Carolyn); his brothers-in-law, Richard Ellis and Greg Murphree (Lee); his sister-in-law, Mary Ann McGreger; and his grandchildren, Si Thomas, Baylee Bolinger, Mo Blank, Cole Thomas, Presley McGreger, and Clark McGreger. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Charles Lee McGreger and Jimmy Don McGreger; his sister, Pat Ellis; his nephew, Odis Lee McGreger; his great-nephew, Hunter Lee McGreger; and his sister-in-law, Betty McGreger.

Though his passing leaves a hole that cannot be filled, Earl’s legacy lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the strength of his family, and the community he loved so deeply. His was a life rooted in faith, hard work, and joy in the simple things—proof that presence itself is the greatest gift. To know Earl was to be loved by him, and his memory will continue to guide and steady those who were lucky enough to call him family and friend.

A funeral service honoring Earl's life will be held on Monday September 8, 2025 in Vardaman First Baptist Church at 2:00 PM with Bro. Darrell Logan and Bro. Gary Permenter officiating. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM before the service at Vardaman First Baptist Church. Earl will be laid to rest in Poplar Springs Cemetery with Whit Casey officiating, and Si Thomas, Baylee Bollinger, Mo Blank, Brian Ellis, Cole Thomas, Clark McGreger, Chris McGreger, and Sammy McGreger serving as pallbearers. Dewayne Winter, Johnny Cardwell, James K. Hardin, Pete Scarbrough, Willie Mays, Bobby Parker, and Mickey Easley will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the following organizations:

Vardaman Athletic Booster Club
Earl was an enthusiastic VHS Ram all of his life—first as an athlete, then as a father of athletes, and most recently as a proud grandfather cheering on the next generation. To contribute, please contact Wyndi Davis, Booster Club Treasurer, at (662) 542-6437, or make a donation directly at the office of Vardaman High School, (662) 682-7574.
Vardaman First Baptist Church
Earl’s church home where he served faithfully. To contribute, please contact the church office at (662) 682-7458.
Alzheimer’s Organizations
A gift to the Alzheimer’s organization of your choice in Earl’s memory will also honor his life and help others facing this disease, alz.org (Alzheimer's Association).