Odessa Law

On March 28, 1935, Emmett and Ola Lee Cotton gave birth to a baby girl in their home in Memphis, Tennessee. Her birth certificate initially read “Baby Girl Cotton,” a name later legally changed to the one we all came to know and love—Odessa Cotton. The story of how she came into the world named “Baby Girl Cotton” was one she always enjoyed sharing. Odessa moved to Detroit, Michigan, in 1944 at the age of nine. She accepted Christ at an early age and became a devoted member of Prince of Peace Baptist Church, where she served faithfully as an usher and trustee. In the early 2000s, she became a member of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church, where she remained a committed member until her final days. A proud graduate of Northwestern High School in Detroit, Odessa was recruited by the U.S. Federal Government in 1953—a testament to her exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Throughout her distinguished career, she held a variety of roles, including positions at the Tank Arsenal, in regulatory audit, and within the investigative division of U.S. Customs. She broke barriers as a trailblazer for Black women in the federal government. Odessa retired in July 1997 as the Employee Relations Specialist to the Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Customs Office of Investigations, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and dedicated public service. On March 28, 1953, Odessa married James Irvin Thomas, and from that union came two children: "Andre" (aka Andra) Virginia Thomas and James Irvin Thomas Jr. She later married James Emmett Law on December 10, 1960, who preceded her in death. Together they welcomed three children: Jayna Marie Law, Jerome Emmett Law, and Jeffrey Kahlid Law. Odessa lived her life with grace, strength, and a signature sense of style. She was the perfect balance of prim and proper, yet never shy about speaking her mind with class and honesty. Known for her impeccable fashion sense, she had a true love for clothes and could often be found out shopping for the latest styles. In her retirement years, she remained full of life and energy—attending and watching basketball games (a shared passion with her brother, Lucius Cotton), taking Zumba, Jazzercise, and line dancing classes, and keeping up with her fitness routine at the gym. Odessa had a heart for others and a deep, unwavering love for those around her. Selfless by nature, she consistently put others before herself and found joy in caring for those in need. Her nurturing spirit and quiet strength made her a steady source of comfort, support, and encouragement to both family and friends throughout her life. Her nurturing spirit was matched by her natural gift in the kitchen. She expressed her love through the meals and baked goods she prepared with joy, earning her the affectionate nickname “Betty Crocker.” Her passion for cooking and baking was lovingly passed down to her granddaughter Brittney, who cherished learning new recipes and baking alongside her. It was no surprise that the family later gave Brittney the nickname “Betty Crocker Jr.,” as she proudly continues the tradition. Being a grandmother and great-grandmother brought Odessa her greatest joy. She was affectionately called “Grandma” or “Gaga” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless cherished moments. Her grandsons, Jerome and Jayson, especially remember the sweet tradition of being tucked in at night and saying their prayers with her. She often kept her grandchildren overnight, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. That same joyful spirit continued with her great-granddaughter, who inspired many dance parties and sing-alongs—including Odessa's favorite: “Baby Shark.” She shared a special bond with her second-born granddaughter, Chelsea, with whom she shared a birthday. Odessa always referred to Chelsea as her greatest birthday present, and the two delighted in celebrating together. Chelsea proudly carries on her grandmother’s bold and fiery spirit. For a brief time, Odessa experienced health challenges and moved from Detroit to live with her daughter, Andra, in West Bloomfield. True to form, she bounced back with determination—quickly reclaiming the kitchen, handling daily chores, and restoring her signature sass and energy. That strength remained with her until the very end. Even in her final days, Odessa was a fighter. She faced pain with resilience, courage, and grace—just as she had lived her life. Odessa was preceded in death by her parents Emmett and Ola Lee Cotton; her loving husband, James Emmett Law; her two beloved brothers, Lucius Cotton and Walter Cotton; and her dear friend, James Bradfield. Odessa leaves behind many who will continue to carry her memory forward: her beloved children, Andra Virginia Richardson, James Irvin Thomas, Jayna Marie Law, Jerome Emmett (Kim) Law, and Jeffrey Kahlid Law; grandchildren, Brittney Leigh (Antonio) Moore, Chelsea Anne Richardson, Jerome Emmett Louis Law, and Jayson Alexander Law; great-grandchildren, Kynsleigh Virginia Moore and Kallan Antonio Moore; sister-in-law, Delores Sykes Cotton; and countless other members of the Cotton, Law, and Thomas families, along with a host of extended relatives and dear friends. Odessa’s life was one of faith, strength, elegance, and boundless love. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the values she instilled, and the lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Funeral Service will be live streamed here: https://hartfordmemorial.thechurchonline.com/

Odessa Law

March 28, 1935 - July 11, 2025