Denise Dunham Holley's Obituary
Denise Dunham Holley
July 11, 1956 - August 08, 2015
Denise Holley entered the world on July 11th, 1956 and took her last breath on August 8th, 2015. In between those years she touched countless lives, influenced many people and established a love that will live on for years to come. She leaves behind a multitude of family and friends who were blessed by her time here on earth.
Denise was born to Dennis and Essie Pearl Dunham of La Porte. Her childhood was full of fun times following around her big brother John “Champ” Dunham, who she admired, and playing with her little sister Laura, who she adored. Summers and holidays were spent surrounded by loved ones including numerous cousins and family friends. As a child, Denise’s parents made sure she learned about the important things in life- the value of church, the importance of family, from how to cook a homemade meal to how to bait a fishing hook. Throughout her youth, Denise was involved in several organizations and took part in many group activities. She graduated from La Porte High School in 1974 and was a lifetime member of La Porte Community Church.
After graduation, Denise attended Lee College in Baytown, Texas where she studied her love of music and found the love of her life, Carl Holley. The couple would spend the rest of Denise’s life side by side. They took turns taking care of each other over the years and had a love story that we all aspired to. From performing together to leading the youth in their church for a time and everything in between, they did so together. Their relationship was built on a friendship, shared values and the trust that if either was to ever fall, the other would be there to help them through. They were married in May of 1976. Denise was welcomed into the Holley Family and over the years his family became hers too. Carl and Denise began their life as a family in 1977 when they welcomed their first born baby girl into the world, Cara Denise Holley. Becoming a mom was Denise’s biggest dream come true and her proudest accomplishment. As parents, their hearts were full, but their family not yet complete. In 1978, Christa Lea Holley was born, promoting Cara to big sister. Much to their delight, in 1983, Denise and Carl welcomed the baby of the family- a son, Chad Clifton Edward Holley.
Together the parents of three created a loving home and created a lifetime of memories. From birthday parties and family trips to school functions and family dinners, everything Carl and Denise did was for their children. They did so with a smile with every sacrifice, not just for their own, but for others too. Their door was always open for those in need of a friend, a guardian, or a place to stay. A lot of people came through those doors over the years. Denise greeted them each with open arms, usually accompanied by a delicious home cooked meal, a talent she learned from her own mother. If ever there was a question on how to make something, how to remove a stain out of a shirt, which household products to use or how to raise a child, everyone knew they could count on Denise to have the answer. She was the most incredible wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, Godmother, grandmother and friend. She was known for so many great qualities, but she was happiest when she was helping others, surrounded by family and rocking babies.
She was passionate about decorating for the holidays; it was as though she wanted the world to match the joy and sparkle she felt in her heart.
Denise’s greatest treasure was her family, and of that treasure her grandbabies were her most precious gems. They knew her as Grammy, a role there was never anyone more suited to play. They brought her an indescribable happiness and she showed them one of the purest forms of unconditional love. Denise showed continuous support for her children and grandchildren and never missed a chance to tell them how much she loved them.
Over the years, Denise faced her share of health challenges. Even when her body was plagued with pain, her mighty spirit still reigned in her heart. Denise had an unparalled strength and character. On the hard days, she drew on the love around her, faith within her and cherished memories of better times. Even in her absence, she is an example to us all. Remember to live fully, love with all your heart and bring a smile to others, just as she always did.
Denise was preceded in death by her loving parents Dennis Clifton Dunham and Essie Pearl Dunham. She is survived by her beloved husband Carl Edward Holley. Brother John “Champ” and wife Pam. Sister Laura Lea Dunham. Children Cara Holley Kaminski and husband Chad, her daughter Christa, Chad and his wife Teia. Grandchildren Kyle, Gracie, Alexsis, Chad, Caison and London Everly. Many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, family members and godchildren.
Services 11:00 A M Thursday at LaPorte Community Church with interment to follow at LaPorte Cemetery Family will receive friends Wednesday 6 - 8 P M at the Funeral Home.
In Lieu usual remembrances memorials may be made to Laura Dunham s Benefit/Care Account at Amegy Bank 1401 Fairmont Pkwy. LaPorte Tx 77571,in memory of her sister, Denise Holley. If mailed, a note should be attached describing this information, or you can send a check for Laura's Care Acct. c/o John Dunham, 1002 S. 3rd LaPorte Texas 77571
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