COOK COUNTY RESIDENTS TO GATHER AND MOURN THE LOST OF A COMMUNITY ICON

Ms. Odessa Hurt
Ms. Odessa Hurt

COOK COUNTY RESIDENTS TO GATHER AND MOURN THE LOST OF A COMMUNITY ICON

MS. ODESSA HURT, GRANDMOTHER OF LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH OF ALL NATIONS ASSISITANT PASTOR BRYAN HURT, SUCCUMBS AT AGE 85

AN ICONIC WOMAN OF GOD (July 20th, 1939 - January 17th, 2025)

(Lynwood, Illinois) Residents throughout Cook County are mourning the loss of an immensely popular and iconic figure, Ms. Odessa Hurt. Mother Hurt was considered by many a mother, friend, and mentor to so many African American women and girls. Her passing is viewed as a significant loss not only to her family but to the community in which she called home.

Mother Hurt passed away on January 17th, as she was surrounded by her loving family. Mother Hurt was the grandmother Lynwood Police and Fire Commissioner Bryan Hurt. Commissioner Hurt also serves as the proud Assistant Pastor of the Lighthouse Church of All Nations. Mother Hurt will be laid to rest on Saturday, February 1s,t at the Christian Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church of Chicago.

“We are all so saddened by the passing of Mother Hurt. Her life was filled with such joy and meaningful engagement with so many people in which she mentored , loved, and respected. On behalf of the Village of Lynwood, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Commissioner Bryan Hurt and the entire Hurt family. “says Lynwood Mayor Jada D. Curry.

Illinois State Representative Thaddeus Jones adds, “Its very rare that you come across such a pillar in the community such as Mother Hurt. She is well deserving of the many accolades that have poured in since her passing. We are all praying for Commissioner Hurt and his family.” 

Mother Hurt passed away on January 17th, as she was surrounded by her loving family. 

“My grandmother instilled strong morals and ethics in our family. The values in which she demanded of me are reflected in my approach to ministry, my family and business endeavors. I have been in public service for 25 years, and it is with immense pride that I continue her legacy of public service.” says Commissioner Bryan Hurt.

Odessa Hurt, born on July 20, 1939, to George and Rosie Bell Trawick. A cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, she was called home to be with the Lord on January 17, 2025, at the age of 85. As the eighth of ten children, Odessa’s life was deeply rooted in family and faith. She was a woman of God and dedicated her life to embodying love, kindness, and service to others. For over 45 years, Odessa was a devoted member of the Christian Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, where she became a pillar of her church community, offering wisdom, support, and unwavering faith to all who knew her.

Odessa’s nurturing spirit and motherly heart extended to everyone she encountered, providing guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. She cherished her role as a proud and loving mother to her eight children: Barbara, Charles Hurt Jr. (Carol), Gloria Hurt, Norva Dixon (Phillip), Alana Schrock (David), Dr. Lisa Malone (Calvin), Pamela Baker (Bruce), and her beloved daughter Deborah, who preceded her in death. Odessa was also preceded in death by her dear husband, Charles.

Her legacy continues through her children and extends to her 16 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and her cherished great-great-grandson, all of whom she loved deeply and who will carry her memory forward. Odessa’s wisdom, warmth, and unwavering faith will forever be remembered by her family, friends, and church community. Her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the prayers and support received during this difficult time. In honor of Odessa’s remarkable life of love, faith, and strength, may her memory live on in the hearts of all whose lives she touched. 


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