Denise Highsmith

Sacramento, California - Denise Highsmith passed away peacefully on February 29, 2024 at the age of 84. Born Dorothy Denise Millett on February 7, 1940, in Aberdeen, Washington to Floyd and Dorothy Millett. Survived by brother Col. Thomas Millett. She attended the University of Washington, majoring in home economics and pledging the Pi Beta Phi sorority. There she met Roger Moore, with whom she has a daughter, Meri, and son, Christopher, and the family lived in Aberdeen for many years. She later remarried Ray Highsmith, and they enjoyed happy years together in Palm Desert, California, a place she loved and considered home. Denise had an insatiable zest for life and was a consummate extrovert, striking up conversations with strangers only to discover they had common acquaintances. She thrived in her position as a concierge at the Marriott Desert Springs Hotel and had a knack for organizing large galas and events. Denise loved cooking and entertaining, and was known for her exquisite cuisine, impeccable style and fun-loving spirit. She was a life-long athlete and played tennis, snow and water skied, and was a member of the synchronized swim team in high school. She was rarely spotted without her devoted canine companion Maddy by her side and will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched.

If so moved, please consider a donation in her name to your favorite charity.