Odessa (Smith) Weaver

Odessa Ann (Smith) Weaver, 82, of Garrison, Texas, passed away in a tragic car accident on August 29, 2023, in Shelby County, Texas.

Per her wishes she was cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Mangum Funeral Home with Bro. Justin Harkness officiating.

“Dessa” was born in Shelby County March 19, 1941, to Perry Smith and Grace Whitton Smith. She was one of seven children. Dessa attended Sardis School and was raised in the Sardis Community. Dessa believed in working hard from day break until a job was complete or until dark and start again in the morning. She also believed in playing hard and enjoying life. In the mid 70’s she owned and operated Weaver’s Grocery Store across the street from Dairy Queen in Center, where she met so many high school kids that she “adopted”. The store was often filled with kids she fondly referred to as her “Weaver Store Kids”. She kept many of those friendships alive through the years. She was an outdoors person, hobbies included gardening, especially “her” flowers; loved all animals of any shape or size; enjoyed cooking; avid reader; spending time with family and friends. One of her greatest joys in most recent years was being sure the great grandkids had balloons for special occasions and loved to learn Soccer while watching them play.

Survived by:

Daughter,

Deborah “Deb” Peterson and husband Tom of Milam, Texas

Grandchildren:

Patrick Sample and Alex of Center, Texas

Stephanie Harkness and Justin of Center, Texas

Ashley Hayes and Grant of The Woodlands, Texas

Justin Peterson of Texas City, Texas

Alyssa Ray and Nathan of Houston, Texas

Great Grandchildren:

Bronson and Elias Sample of Center

Cyper and Cecil Harkness of Center

Stevie Ray of Houston

Daughter-in-law:

Patricia Jacques of Nacogdoches

Sister:

Virginia Lemoine of Center

Brother:

Ray Smith of Center

Beloved Babies:

Charley and Moppy (dogs)

Many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Odessa was preceded in death by her parents, Perry and Grace Smith; Son, Dale Weaver of Nacogdoches; two brothers, and two sisters.