Odessa Canedy

Odessa Milton Canedy, known to many as Nama, was born April 6, 1933, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Her parents, Dora Hall-Milton and Samuel Milton, Sr., as well as her siblings, Osilee Milton-Murray, Rosilee Milton-Ransom, Luther Milton, Albert Milton, and Samuel Milton, Jr., preceded her in death.
In 1946, Odessa moved to Indianapolis, Indiana. She had a happy childhood growing up on Fayette Street, where she spent time playing with her siblings. Odessa attended elementary school in the Indianapolis Public School System, and finished her schooling at Crispus Attucks High School.
It was during this time that Odessa furthered her commitment to Christ, and devoted herself to studying the Bible. She joined St. John's Missionary Baptist Church and became an integral part of the church community.
Odessa married Leroy Canedy (deceased), and had three beautiful children: Bruce, Brenda, and Deloris "Dee- Dee". Odessa was an incredible mother, always making sure her children had everything they needed, and she consistently led her family with patience and grace.
Odessa had a varied professional path. She spent many years working as a waitress at Greyhound Bus Station, an assembler on the line at RCA, at Roselyn Bakery, and as a home-based childcare provider for numerous children from both her family and extended family.
In her free time, Odessa loved furthering her commitment to Christ by ushering at St. John's Missionary Baptist Church, as her health allowed. She enjoyed listening to music, with tastes ranging from The Williams Brothers to Seal. She also loved cooking beautiful meals, and always kept a meticulously tended garden.
If you have met Odessa, you will know how deeply she loved and cared about those around her. Odessa was always there to support others through sickness and hardship, taking the time to care for those in need in her community. The purity of her heart and the determination of her spirit supported her in uplifting others, and bringing joy to those around her.
Odessa's strength was notorious. Having overcome cancer on three occasions, Odessa fought for her life, and to live her life well. She leaned on the Lord's strength to carry her through her journey, reinforcing her faith and commitment to give back to those around her.
Odessa departed this life on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the age of 92 years 2 months and 17 days. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Waiting to meet Odessa at Heaven's gate are two of her children, Deloris and Brenda, and great-grandson, Corion Hannah.
Odessa leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Bruce (Bridget) Canedy, Sr.; grandchildren, Nicole Howard-Grays, Courtney Jones, Bruce Canedy, Jr., Kimberley (Jay) Walker, Brandon Canedy, and Chelsea Canedy; great-grandchildren Jasmine Cruite, Miles Walker, Jaylen Grice, Darrien (Kassandra) Grays, Jacob Canedy, Tyler Grays, Ryan Walker, Jordan Canedy, Lamont Brown, Jr., Tyler Walker, and Justin Canedy; great-great grandchildren, John Grice, Logan Ellery, Jairon Grice, Ny'len Grice, Milan Thornton and Jakai Grice; four generations of cherished nieces and nephews, and numerous extended family and friends whose lives she has touched.
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