Texas Folklore: The White-Painted-Woman of Odessa, Texas

Midland-Odessa has a long, rich history and culture that pulsates throughout the region.  Much like any other city in the world, we have our own versions of spooky ghost stories that locals seem to pass along from generation to generation.

READ MORE: The Chilling Story of the Donkey Lady Bridge in Texas

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The Story of the White-Painted-Lady Ghost of Andrews Highway

There's a portion of Andrews Highway in Odessa that you may want to think twice before driving on at night.  According to local legend, a female ghostly figure roams around at night in a white wedding dress.   The story is that she was a young bride-to-be who tragically died in the 1950s. It's been said that she can be seen on the side of the Highway, either walking or standing still.  Some people also claim that she disappears if you tend to get too close.

Cause of Death

There are multiple accounts of HOW the White-Painted-Lady tragically passed away.  The most popular theory is that the woman was driving on Andrews Highway and was struck by a hit-and-run driver.  Other accounts claim that she was walking on the side of the road when a vehicle struck her down.

Confirmation of Story Sources

When I first heard about this, I wanted to learn more.  To my surprise, I was unable to find any credible media sources to confirm that the origin of the White-Painted-Lady actually happened.   After some research, I was unable to find a confirmation that a bride-to-be wearing a white wedding dress was struck and killed on Andrews Highway or anywhere else in the region.  Having said that, I am going to chalk this one up to be considered local folklore or Urban Legend.  The story itself has been passed down for decades.  How long this story will continue to be passed along remains to be seen.