Odessa "Dessi" Hansen Orso

Odessa Marie Hansen Orso, born in Mobile, Alabama, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 25, 2014. Friends and family called Odessa “Dessa” or “Dessi”. Odessa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Malvin Eugene Orso, to whom she was married for 58 years. A lifelong resident of Mobile, and graduate of Murphy High School, Odessa worked as a teller at Merchants Bank during her early years, until she was married in 1949. Odessa loved her country. She was an avid fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide, and would always watch the games on TV with family and learned the names of the players. Odessa loved nature, the birds, trees, flowers, the blue sky, and the clouds. She loved being near the water, and swimming. She loved to restore old furniture. She loved to travel, and cherished the travels she shared with her husband in retirement. Odessa and Malvin were active with the Baldwin Senior Travelers travel club. Odessa was a member of the Springhill Avenue United Methodist Church, and was an active member for as long as her health allowed. Most of all, Odessa loved her family. She always wanted to keep track of all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren and know if they are doing OK. Odessa was known for her love and kindness, but would stand up for herself and her family when she needed to. Odessa is survived by her children: Stephen Keith Orso, Susan Orso Stephens, and Tod Kevin Orso; seven grandchildren: Cyndy Orso Baggett, Braxton Eugene Orso, Bria Danielle May, Jordan Alexander Orso, Jeremy Eugene Stephens, Kelly Stephens Baggett, Phillip Scott Stephens; and ten great grandchildren: Emma Marie Baggett, Avery Elaine Baggett, Ella Claire Stephens, Gracie Joy Stephens, Austin Taylor Stephens, Cameron Scott Stephens, Gavin Parker May, Zachary Jordan Harris, Mallory Noelle Harris, and Cassidy Faith Harris. Graveside services will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 3 PM on Wed., April 30, 2014. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com. Arrangements under the direction of Radney Funeral Home, 3155 Dauphin Street, Mobile, Alabama 36606.