Denise Eva Deneen Collette

Denise Deneen Collette took her final curtain call as the year came to an end on December 31st, 2018. A dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, philanthropist and life-long fan of the theatre, Denise will be remembered for her accomplishments both on and off-stage.

Though born in rural Michigan, Denise found her home in Florida as a child. Life eventually brought her to New Mexico, where she met her soulmate, Craig. After spending several years together in Seattle, their yearning for warm weather, sandy beaches, and proximity to her family brought them back to her beloved home state.

Denise was known to many for her tireless work in the theatre community as an award-winning actress, producer, set decorator, building manager, board member and property master. She was involved in over 150 productions throughout her career. Her passion for taking on quirky and challenging comedic roles gave her the opportunity to breathe life into a wide array of scene-stealing characters.

When she wasn’t at the theatre, Denise could be found working to ensure the success of Wish Upon A Tree, a charitable foundation she created benefitting Special Connections Ministry through St. James United Methodist Church.

In addition to Craig, her husband of 27 years, Denise’s legacy will survive through her eldest son Kevin (wife Alexis and children Aubrey and Adalynn), daughter Ivey (fiancé Trenton), youngest son Kyle and brother Irvin Jr. (wife Kim).

Denise will be laid to rest with her parents and grandparents in the family plot in Sebring, Florida.