Joyce S. Odien, retired teacher

Odien

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Gregory the Great on Oct. 7 for Joyce S. Odien, 61, of Williamsville, who died Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2006 at the Center for Hospice in Cheektowaga.

Born in Buffalo, Mrs. Odien taught fifth grade at Willow Ridge Elementary, Spanish at Depew Middle and third grade at Maplemere Elementary. She retired in 2000 after 34 years of teaching.

Mrs. Odien was a Eucharistic minister at St. Gregory the Great and was active with the Canisius College Scholarship Association and was a member of the Sweet Home Retired Teachers Association. She was also a member of the University at Buffalo Women's Club and a former trustee of Mount St. Mary Academy.

An avid gardener, she loved her garden and would spend many hours in her back yard tending to her plants.

"The endless numbers of people who came to pay their respects was utterly amazing," said husband Richard Odien. "She cared for everyone, and placed her family and friends ahead of herself. She was loved by so many."

Mrs. Odien is survived by her husband of 38 years, Richard; a son, Marc J.; and a daughter, Jennifer M.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Hospice of Cheektowaga and the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements were made by Perna-Pelligrino Funeral Home.