Rev. Peter Andrew Oddo

Rev. Peter Andrew Oddo, a devoted servant of God, proud Navy veteran, and beloved member of his family and community, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, just days shy of his 91st birthday. Born on May 13, 1935, in Lodi, New Jersey, Rev. Oddo was the cherished son of the late Andrew Oddo and the late Angelina (Tamborini) Oddo. He was raised in Lodi, where he spent his early years before embarking on a life of service, adventure, and unwavering faith. He graduated from Pope Pius High School, earned a B.A. In Classical Languages and an M.A. in Psychology from Seton Hall University, and an M.A. In Theology from Immaculate Conceptional School of Theology. Rev. Oddo was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Newark on May 27, 1961. After his initial parish assignment, he was assigned to minister among those suffering from alcohol and drug addiction, offering them compassion, guidance, and hope. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, rising to the rank of Captain over a distinguished 24-year career. During his time in service, he traveled extensively around the world on the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), a U.S. Navy Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered supercarrier and flagship for the Carrier Strike Group 1. He honorably served during the Persian Gulf War. He earned the Navy Commendation Medal, two Navy Achievement Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal. His leadership, dedication, and patriotism left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. Following his retirement from the Navy, Rev. Oddo made his home in Swartswood, New Jersey where he found peace and fulfillment in the natural beauty of the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. He was also a member of local hunting clubs, where he shared camaraderie and friendship with fellow enthusiasts. Rev. Oddo continued to serve God tirelessly, assisting both Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Swartswood and Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish in Branchville. Even in retirement, his zeal for souls remained undiminished. In a particular way, he will be remembered for his faithful presence at weekend Masses at Mount Carmel, especially the 9:00 a.m. liturgy where he freely gave of himself, embodying the selfless charity of Christ the Good Shepherd. As his health declined, Rev. Peter was lovingly cared for at Merry Heart in Succasunna, where he spent his final days. Rev. Oddo is survived by his taller but less handsome brother, Rosario Oddo and his wife Angela, and his sister-in-law, Mary Anne Oddo, wife of his late brother Andrew M. Oddo. He was a proud and devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews: Mary Anne Montelbano and her husband Keith; Carole Anne Cavanagh and her husband Brian; Andrew P. Oddo and his wife Meg; and Jessica Carlin and her husband John. He is also survived by five cherished great-nieces, seven great-nephews, many cousins, and extended family members. In addition, Rev. Oddo shared a special bond with the Noto and Falotico families, who remained close to him throughout his life. In addition to his parents and his brother Andrew, he was predeceased by loved ones who welcomed him into eternal rest. Rev. Oddo will be remembered for his steadfast faith, humble spirit, and deep commitment to serving both his country and his Church. His life was a testament to devotion, integrity, and compassion, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rev. Peter Andrew Oddo

May 13, 1935 - May 4, 2026