‘Odette was loved by many’
The actress, model and recovery advocate from the South Coast will be remembered for her energy for life.
Actress and model Odette Warder (42), formerly from the South Coast, died suddenly while living in New York City, USA a few weeks ago.
Her husband, Jean-Pierre Henderson, wrote from the USA, saying that Odette would never be forgotten, and that she leaves behind family and friends who are better off because of her influence.
“Her energy and spirit will live on in us. We will forever be grateful for her presence in our lives. Odette made the world a better place,” he said.
Jean-Pierre thanked everyone for their kind messages. “We really appreciate all the love and kindness we have received during this very sad time.”
Odette’s life was a fascinating one, a clear demonstration of strength and perseverance.
She overcome many challenges, none more so than her recovery after a horrendous motor vehicle accident when she was a teenager.
The coma she was in after the accident, when she was only 16, was the one with the most lasting influence on her life.
Odette was left handicapped and unable to speak when she awoke.
She started a long and strenuous recovery programme of almost 19 months. Many doctors and others from around the world were stunned by her miraculous recovery.
She wrote Poison Rose, an inspirational book about the key challenges in her life that she overcame with the help and guidance of God.
Odette was creative and talented in many areas.
Even the camera caught her eye. She had 28 years of modeling experience in South Africa, the USA, England and New Zealand.
From 2009, she was cast in various large budget and independent TV and film projects.
Odette also loved working behind the camera in film production, creating masterpieces.
Jean-Pierre said Odette was a teetotaler and an advocate for millions battling and recovering from alcohol addiction.
“She helped, motivated, and supported people in recovery and was a pillar of hope, support and encouragement.”
He said Odette taught that it’s important forgive quickly and to be kind and generous to others and oneself, to do the best you can and to cultivate gratitude.
Her maxim was: “Live as if you would die tomorrow; believe as if you were to live forever.”
And that is exactly what Odette did.
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