Odette Perez

Odette Clarisse Perez, known lovingly by many as "Mama O," passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, at the age of 92 & 1/2, at Roseleaf Gardens Assisted Living in Chico, California. She lived a long, full, and beautiful life marked by warmth, laughter, unwavering faith, and a genuine love for the people around her. Although dementia gradually dimmed the brilliance of her mind in her later years, it never diminished the sweetness of her spirit or the kindness that defined her life. Odette was born on February 1, 1934, in France, the daughter of the late Gracianne Casassus. A bright and determined young woman, she earned her Certificate of Primary Education from the Bordeaux Academy of France at just fourteen years old, issued by the Academy Inspector for the Department of Basses-Pyrénées on June 16, 1948. Soon afterward, she and her family made the journey across the Atlantic and settled in San Francisco, California, where she attended Galileo High School and graduated on June 11, 1952. Not long after graduation, Odette met the love of her life, Joseph L. Perez, at a dance. Their love story began on the dance floor and led to their marriage on June 21, 1952, at Our Lady of Victory Church in San Francisco. Together they built a life rooted in love, hard work, faith, and devotion. Odette became a proud citizen of the United States on April 12, 1955, receiving her Certificate of Naturalization. Later that year, she pursued her passion for cosmetology, earning her California State Board of Cosmetology Certificate on November 28, 1955. The couple eventually settled in Corning, where Odette worked for many years in a local hair salon while Joe served as Hospital Engineer at Corning Memorial Hospital. Together they created a welcoming home on Barham Avenue—a place filled with laughter, delicious meals, good conversation, and countless cherished memories. Those who knew Odette will remember her wonderful sense of humor, playful personality, remarkable work ethic, and loving heart. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued. She loved dining out, cooking for family and friends, socializing, traveling, and dancing. She remained proud of her French heritage, actively participating in local French cultural activities, while also faithfully serving and worshiping in her church community. After Joe's passing on November 5, 1995, Odette continued to enjoy retirement in the home they had built together—a lasting testament to their partnership, perseverance, and the life they lovingly created side by side. Above all else, Odette treasured her relationship with God. Her faith was the foundation of her life, sustaining her through every season and giving her enduring peace and hope. Her family finds comfort in the words of 2 Corinthians 5:1, 7–8: "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands... For we live by faith, not by sight... We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord." Odette was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Perez, and her mother, Gracianne Casassus. She is survived by her personally adopted son, Michael Moller, and her personally adopted daughter, Leslie Moller, who will forever cherish the love, laughter, wisdom, and unwavering faith she shared with them. Officiant: Michael Moller. During the service, family and friends will be invited to share memories and stories celebrating Odette's (Mama O's) life and the countless ways she touched the hearts of everyone blessed to know her.

Odette Perez

February 1, 1934 - July 26, 2026

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Odette Perez

February 1, 1934 - July 26, 2026

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