Denise R Huddleston
September 12th, 1953 – April 12th, 2025
Denise “D.D.” Rochelle Huddleston was born on September 12, 1953, in St Louis, MO to the late Floyd Thomas, Sr. and Fairy Dean Thomas as their first girl and third child of 8 children. She completed her education within the St Louis Public School District as a graduate of McKinley High School in 1971. During that time her interests included concert choir, pep club, volleyball, bowling, student council and playing the violin.
With a career that spanned various roles in business and patient accounts support, she spent an impressive 25 years as an analyst in National & Special Accounts and Accounts Receivables at Blue Cross Blue Shield. Colleagues and friends alike knew her for her cheerful demeanor and an unwavering commitment to providing outstanding service.
Although she initially desired a career in nursing, her aversion to the sight of blood led her to explore other paths for compassionate care by working with children to support their academic and spiritual needs. She was a tutor for The Mathews-Dickey Boys and Girls Club of St Louis as well as the Pattonville School District, Drummond Elementary. As a life-long dedicated member of Carter C.M.E. Church, she took on many roles throughout her membership as an amazing Sunday School teacher, first soprano choir member (Carter and 3rd Episcopal District of the C.M.E Church), Secretary, including other responsibilities as needed. Denise was also a member of the Missouri Order of Eastern Star Medinah Court #15 Daughter of Isis.
Denise was a completely devoted and exceptionally loving mother to her only child Twania Dean. Her sacrifices ensured that Twania’s quality of life superseded her own. Eventually, Denise was blessed with a granddaughter, Nya Dean, whom she had always adored as her “littlest girl” and both shared an unbreakable bond and passion for music.
You would find her listening to many genres of music, but the Temptations were a top favorite! Being a lover of the arts and musicals, some of her favorites were The Sound of Music, Wizard of Oz and West Side Story.
Her infectious smile and personality could light up a room. You never had to ask, “who made the potato salad” at any family potluck function as she was often looked at as the “go-to person”.
Denise departed for her heavenly home on April 12, 2025. She touched the lives of many with her optimism and passion, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and professionalism that will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her. Her spirit lives on through her daughter Twania Dean (Kimmett), granddaughter, Nya Dean, seven siblings; Floyd Thomas Jr, Eric Thomas (Sharon), Vakila Ahmad (Pir), Wendy Thomas, Douglas Thomas (Darlene), Jeffrey Thomas, and Sonya Greene (Tim), also a vast host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Denise you’re truly gonna be missed , i love when she would sing ,she could really hit those high notes with no problem, she was so sweet and funny, my condolences to her family
Rest well my friend 💔
Denise was a lot of fun ,when she would sing , she sounded so beautiful ,my condolences to her family
Rest well my friend 💔
I worked with Denise many years at Signature Orthopedics. She was friendly and diligent in her work. Always so proud of her daughter and grand daughter, she shared many pictures and stories. She loved her church work and being in the choir. Always looked forward to her family reunions. I know she will be deeply missed by her family and friends. So glad I got to know her.
My big sister.
There were many sides to DD.
Whoever said ‘”If you are on time you are late”. They knew my sister.. She’d arrive to work 30-60 minutes early.
. I used to tease her and ask how much they pay her to let maintenance staff in and ask if she had her initials on her set.of keys. 😁
Back in the she was the keeper of all my favorite VCR tapes. You’d have to sign your name and date on the list of what you took! I’d say, I don’t see so and so tape… she’d say our niece probably has it. Check the list.
Sure enough she’d beat me to the tape we both liked. Her for one movie and me for the second one. I’d have to laugh!!!
Denise you were a beautiful person and a loving soul. I worked with you at signature/mid county orthopedics. You made work bearable. Much love to your daughter and granddaughter. Gonna miss you Denise.
I too worked with Denise at Signature Ortho. She was so very nice. Dedicated to detail. So thoughtful, would always bring me walnut brownies for my birthday. God bless you sweet Sister. God bless your family.