Odessa Williams

On October 6, 1947, Odessa Williams was born to Lemmie and Mary Howard in Yazoo, Mississippi, where she was raised and attended school.   She later moved to Houston, Texas, where she built a life rooted in love, faith, and family.

Odessa, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and true pillar of strength, passed away in her home on June 22, 2025, at the age of 78 in Houston, Texas.  Born with a nurturing heart and a fierce spirit, Odessa dedicated her life to caring for others.  She found her calling as a nurse - a career that reflected her deep compassion and unwavering devotion to helping those in need.  Earning her nursing degree was one of her proudest accomplishments, and she carried that pride with grace throughout her life.

Odessa was a woman of faith who believed in the Lord and lived her life with purpose, love, and resilience.   She was a confidant, a teacher, a prayer warrior and at times a comedian.   Her wisdom and strength made her the cornerstone of her family, always ready with advice, a listening ear, and a warm meal.   She had a natural gift for making those around her feel seen, heard, and deeply loved.

She found joy in simple pleasures - fishing, cooking, puzzles, laughing and spending time with her family.    Family was everything to Odessa, and her legacy lives on through her children:  Lavorn Jordan (Michael Taylor), Varnadean Thompson, Lastersteen Thompson Jr., Priscilla Swafford, Tonnette Thompson, Bernadette Thompson, and her devoted niece Idessa Chaplin.  She leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and 1 cherished great-great-grandchild, lovingly known as "the Prince", Jesiah Corbett.

Odessa was a woman of resilience, grace, and fierce love.   She said what she meant and meant what she said.   Her memory will continue to be a guiding light to all who were fortunate to know her.

She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Funeral service will be on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Unity Funeral Home Chapel. 7730 Boone Rd., Houston, Tx  77072 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.   Following service, a procession will lead everyone to her final resting place at Forest Park Westheimer Cemetery, 12800 Westheimer Rd., Houston, Tx   77077 (Westheimer at Dairy Ashford).

Unity Funeral Home Staff gives the family and friends of Odessa Williams our deepest condolences at this difficult time.

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