Opal Odum

Opal Odum, 87, of Freeport, IL passed away peacefully, Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Manor Court, of Freeport. Opal was born in Harrisburg, IL to Joe and Hattie (Tarrant) Odum, the youngest of nine children. Her large family was an important factor throughout her life. She attended Southern Illinois University, and Brescia College in Owensboro, Kentucky. She completed her bachelor's degree at Rockford College. She lived in Freeport since the early 1970s.

Opal worked in social services in Freeport and Rockford for many years. She also worked as a painter of homes and as an insulator for five years. In 1982 she and Dan Fransen made a lifetime commitment to one another. Then in the 1990’s she and Dan established themselves in the antiques business selling privately at malls and at shows. She loved working with people and working with antiques. She was an amazing refinisher and respected for the quality of her work. Most noticeable was Opal's appreciation for the simple pleasures in life; times with friends and family, gardening, reading, meeting new people, dinners and attending community events. All her friends remember fondly the times spent with Opal and Dan in their wonderful breakfast nook where hours of conversation, games, coffee and laughter occurred.

Opal cherished her family and many friends. Her spiritual beliefs were her touchstone in life and can best be expressed as "Love one another as God loves us". She was kind in a way that is rare, steadily supporting and encouraging those around her to mend fences within their families and with their friends. Forgiving and receiving forgiveness were equally important to Opal. She also advocated for choosing happiness and admonished us to be as aware of our blessings as we are of our challenges. As she "grew up" she came to embody that rarest of traits - wisdom. Opal inspired all of us with her acceptance, perspective and acts of kindness and inclusion. Her memory is our blessing.

Opal was preceded in death by her parents, beloved daughter Sandra Schubert, lifetime companion Dan Fransen, six sisters, two brothers, four brothers-in-law, five nephews and many cherished friends.

Opal is survived by three grandsons Christopher Appelman, Adrian (Jocelyn) Appelman and Devon Schubert of Dubuque, IA. eight great-grandchildren; Briannah Barton of Chicago, Alexia, Sparrow and Esmae Appelman, John Guess (Paige Cray), Xavier Guess, Carson and Benett Schubert all of Dubuque IA, and great-great grandchild Iris Guess. She also leaves behind nieces, nephews and dear dear friend Lydia Franzen.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund in her name has been established for Mercyhealth Hospice. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Memorial service will take place 1:30 p.m. Friday September 11, 2026, at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home (504 N Walnut, Freeport, IL).

All are invited following the service for fellowship and a celebration of Opal's life at Cimino's Little Italy on South Street in Freeport after her service.