Odessa E. Fountain

Odessa E. Fountain, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and educator, peacefully passed away on May 7, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on, October 13, 1957, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, Odessa was the cherished daughter of the late Helen L. Fountain and Donald Fountain Sr.

A woman of quiet strength and deep love, Odessa devoted her life to her family and community. She was a proud mother to one son, Justin Fountain and a loving mother-in-law to Melissa Fountain. Her legacy continues through her three adored grandchildren, Olivia Fountain, Xavier Fountain, and Josiah Fountain, whose lives she touched with warmth, guidance, and unconditional love. 

Odessa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Manuel Zarita and her sister-in-law, Gloria Fountain.  She is survived by her three devoted brothers, Donald Fountain Jr. (Anjail), Edmond Fountain (the late Gloria Fountain) and David H. Fountain (Doreen). Odessa’s strong family bonds were a source of great joy and pride throughout her life. Which included love for her only niece, Fateema (Fatimah) Boldon, and three nephews, Donald Glover, Thomas Boldon, and Jalil Fountain. Along with a host of cousins, extended family and friends. Professionally, she held a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice, with a focus in Curriculum Instruction, where Odessa served as a dedicated substitute teacher, impacting the lives of countless students, with her patience, kindness, and passion for education. She shined light and wisdom into every classroom she entered, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and students alike.

Odessa E. Fountain will be remembered for her resilience, her generous spirit, and the deep love she had for her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.