Obituary of Odette Mathilde Gifford

Odette Mathilde Gifford, 86, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 8, 2018 at Precious Memories Senior Living. Odette was born June 29, 1931 to Rene and Lucie (Very) Rudelli in Nancy, France. She met her husband Edward while working as a nurse in England during his military service and has been an area resident since. Edward was a well-known water color artist known as the Red Bird Painter and Odette was his assistant. They traveled the country for art shows and Odette continued making and selling prints and etchings after Edward's death. Odette was a faithful member of Queen of Heaven Catholic Church where she served as the live in housekeeper for ten years. She enjoyed spending time with her French Club. Odette is survived by her son Edward (Cheryl) Gifford III; grandchildren John and James Gifford; sister-in-law Pat Gifford; and nieces and nephews Jane Greenland, Anne (David) Dyer, Barbara (Jeff) Salamone, Patty Stoner, Rev. Fr. David R. Durkee and Eric (Heidi) Gifford. The family will receive friends Monday, February 12, 2018 from 5 to 7 pm at the Anthony Funeral Home, 4178 Massillon Rd., Uniontown OH 44684 (corner of Massillon and Steese Roads in Green, entrance off of Steese Rd.) where a Rosary will be recited at 7:00 pm. Additional calling hours Tuesday from 10 to 11 am at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, 1800 Steese Rd. Uniontown OH 44685 will be followed by the Celebration of a Mass of Christian Burial immediately at 11:00 am. A reception will follow the Mass with a private burial at a later date. (Anthony, GREEN, 330-899-9790, anthonyfh.com)