Odessa Cooper

Odessa Cooper, a beloved member of the Detroit community, passed away peacefully at home on September 18, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on March 30, 1936, in Kewanee, Mississippi, Odessa was the cherished daughter of Jonas Eades and Olivia Lee Eades. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Sebell and Christine, and her brothers Johnny, Melvin, and Jonas Jr. Odessa was educated in the Mississippi School System, graduating from the Stevenson Vocational High School in 1955. Odessa entered into matrimony with Henry Cooper in 1955, and together they built a life rich with family and community. Though they had no children of their own, Odessa embraced her role as a "bonus" mother to Yulander Conley and was a guiding presence in the lives of her many nieces and nephews, including her very special niece, Betty Ruffin. Odessa's warmth extended beyond her family to a whole neighborhood she called home since 1968. Throughout her career, Odessa dedicated herself to caring for others. She worked as a nurse's assistant at Ziegler Hospital for over 15 years before concluding her career at Henry Ford Hospital. Her nurturing spirit and compassion left an indelible mark on her colleagues and the countless patients she cared for over the years. A pillar of the Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church for over six decades, Odessa devoted her time and talents in numerous ways. She started under the leadership of Pastor L.S. Williams and continued under the current Pastor A.J. Lucas. She was an active member of the usher board, a cherished voice in the choir, part of the Progressive Women, on the Mother's Board, a diligent member of the nurses' guild, and the pastor's aide. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she shared it generously with everyone around her. Known affectionately as the "Cake Lady," Odessa brought joy and a touch of sweetness to all who knew her. Her cakes were legendary, not just for their flavor but for the love and warmth they represented. Whether for a special event or simply "just because," Odessa's cakes were a symbol of her generosity and her infectious joy for life. Odessa is survived by her sister Mary Ann Gibbs, Lauderdale, MS, brother Sylvester Eades (Lela), Southfield, MI, brother James Eades, Lauderdale, MS, and sister Dorothy Jenkins, Pearl, MS. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire her family, friends, and the community she served so faithfully.