Odette Warder (1981-2023), actress, model and recovery advocate
Odette grew up on the South Africa's subtropical coast of KwaZulu-Natal. She was of Italian/Sicilian-
Odette's life was a fascinating one, a clear demonstration of strength and perseverance. She has
overcome many challenges throughout her life. The coma she was in at the age of 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 program of almost nineteen months. Many
Odette wrote Poison Rose, an inspirational book of her key challenges in her life that she overcame
with the help and guidance of Almighty God. Her simple message “Each one of us experience our
own personal struggles in our everyday life in one way, or the other. It is about your attitude towards
circumstances that matter the most. Remaining positive and making the best of what you have at
this present moment. No matter how great the situation is. How serious the medical problem is, or
how negative the medical facts are. Remember that miracles do happen and sometimes these
Odette was creative and talented in many areas. Even the camera caught her eye, she developed a
zeal for the camera growing up in South Africa with over 28 years modeling experience in United
The TV & Film Industry approached her in 2009 and since been cast on various large budget and
independent projects. Odette also loved working behind the camera in film production, creating a
Odette was a Teetotaler and advocate for millions of people battling and recovering from alcohol
addiction. She helped, motivated, and supported people in Recovery and was a pillar of hope,
Odette lived by the maxim "Live as if you would die tomorrow; believe as if you were to live forever."
Her energy and spirit will live on in us, and we will forever be grateful for her presence in our lives.
What did Odette teach us? That it's important forgive quickly and be kind, to others and ourselves;
know that we are all doing the best that we can. Cultivate gratitude; try to be of service and
generous. Know that your death is real and coming at blinding speed, so stop struggling to hold onto
Odette will never be forgotten and she leaves behind a bunch of family and friends who are better off
because of her influence.