Odestia ”Mamie” Daniel

Sister Odestia Craige-Daniel, a beloved figure to all who knew her, was born on March 8, 1935, to the cherished union of Modesteen Williams-Craige and Joe Craige, Sr. From an early age, Odestia embraced her faith, accepting Christ and being baptized under the guidance of Rev. Pale Ernest Williams Sr at Mount Bethel Baptist Church in Carville, Louisiana. She later became an integral part of Straightway Ministries, where she continued to grow in her spiritual journey under the leadership of Rev. Henry Lamb, Jr.

Odestia's heart was full of love, especially for her late husband, Eugene Daniels, Sr., with whom she shared a beautiful marriage. After dedicating many years of her life to serving at Gillis W. Long Hansen Center in Carville, Louisiana, she retired in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication.

A woman of elegance and grace, Odestia found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. She traveled extensively with her beloved sister, Mary Alice Gaines, and cherished the camaraderie of her social club, Ladies of Distinction, where she embodied the mantra, "Always A Lady."

Odestia leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, as she is survived by five devoted children: Gail Lamb (Henry), Gwendolyn Booker, Eugene Daniel, Jr. (Pamela), Michael Daniel (Lisa), and Randy Gerald Daniel (Tammy). Her family also includes two cherished sisters, Mary Alice Gaines and Bernice Thompson (Roy), along with 10 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She is remembered fondly by her sister-in-law, Shirley Comeaux, and brother-in-law, George Daniel, Jr. Odestia shared a deep bond with her best friend, Mrs. Albertine Jackson, and received loving care from Angela Brown at Landmark Nursing Home. Additionally, she leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Odestia was preceded in death by her husband Eugene Daniels, Sr., her beloved parents Modesteen and Joe Craige, and her siblings Wilbert Craige, Rebecca Street, and Rose Clark.

Her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know her, reminding us all of the beauty of faith, family, and friendship.