Virginia C. Odom

Virginia Ann Cooper Odom, a devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished member of her community, peacefully entered eternal rest on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina. Born on June 15, 1940, in Hemingway, South Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of the late Brunson and Corine Wilson Cooper.

Virginia was a woman of faith, strength, and unwavering love. She was educated at Battery Park High School, where she developed the foundation for a life dedicated to service, family, and entrepreneurship. As the proud owner of North Main Deli, she built more than just a business—she created a gathering place where love and hospitality were served alongside every meal.

Virginia and Ruby were married for 62 wonderful years. She was an active and faithful member of Community CME Church for 44 years; she served in the following capacities: President of the Choir, President of the Stewardess Board, Class Leader, and Trustee.

Virginia had a heart for serving others, and her passion for cooking was one of the many ways she expressed her love. She found great joy in feeding her community and was recognized for her generosity as a pillar in her community and as a devoted foster parent. Additionally, she was an avid supporter of the Columbia Fire Department, always showing appreciation for those who served.

Though she has departed from this earthly life, her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, one brother, Mr. Bunson Cooper Jr., one sister, Patty Cooper, and son-in-law, Samuel Bazemore, Jr. preceded her in death.

Virginia leaves behind her loving husband, Mr. Ruby Odom; three daughters, Mrs. Sabrina Odom (Kabisa) Edwards, Ms. Vanessa Bazemore, Mrs. Lolita Lisa Odom (Eugene) Clarkson, all of Columbia, SC; one son, Ronald Swing (Evetta) Odom of Rock Hill, SC; one stepson, Keith Witherspoon of Hanover, MD; special daughter, Jennifer Martin of Columbia, SC; ten grandchildren, India and Larry Patterson, Emmanuel (Stevee) and Elijah Bazemore, Roman, Reagan,  Raven and Shayna Bazemore, Halema and Kevon Witherspoon; two great-grandchildren, Larry III and Lauren Patterson; three brothers, Mr. Thomas (Francenia) Cooper of Florence, SC, Mr. Joe (Angelina) Cooper of Johnsonville, SC, and Mr. Richard (Carol) Cooper of Summerville, SC; three sisters, Ms. Betty Cooper of Hemingway, SC, Ms. Martha C. Graham of Hemingway, SC, and Ms. Edna C. Mathis of Cross, SC; one sister-in-law, Ms. Gladys Cooper of Upper Marlboro, MD; special niece, Robin Cooper of Hemingway, SC; special friend, Ms. Brenda Griffin of Columbia, SC.

She is also survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Though she will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her. Her love, wisdom, and legacy will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:23

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Virginia C. Odom, please visit our floral store.