Bytha L Deshazo

Bytha Deshazo was born in South Georgia to AC and Rosa Strickland. She was married to the late John Grady Deshazo Sr. for around 50 years, and together they raised five children: Jerry DeShazo, Rosa Seaton, David DeShazo (preceded in death), John DeShazo Jr. (preceded in death), and Sharon Terrebonne.

Bytha worked faithfully for many years in a shrimp factory, supporting her family with strength, resilience, and love. After her husband’s passing in 2000, she joined her son John Jr. in ministry. Together, they dedicated their lives to serving others—feeding the hungry, providing clothing, and meeting the needs of countless individuals. Their outreach extended to several youth prisons in the Tampa area, offering hope and faith to incarcerated youth.

She was ordained through Pura Vida Ministries, based in Fort Pierce, Florida, and Costa Rica. Through this work, Bytha helped support the building of churches and the care of communities in need, both locally and abroad.

Bytha was a talented seamstress who loved sewing and crocheting beautiful gifts for her family, friends, and even strangers in need. She was known for her kind heart, radiant smile, and deep devotion to her faith. Her love extended across generations—she was the proud grandmother of 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 29 great-great-grandchildren, with one great-great-grandchild preceded in death.

She is survived by her loving siblings: Morris, Rena, and Phyllis; her pastor and dear friend, Terry DeAngelis; her caretaker, Tiffany Thomas; and her devoted grandson and caretaker, Jason DeShazo, and his husband, Scott DeShazo. She also leaves behind her beloved dog, Taco, who brought her comfort and joy in her later years.

Bytha was a faithful, loving, and compassionate woman of God. Her legacy of service, love, and unwavering faith continues to live on in the lives she touched.

A visitation for Bytha will be held Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at Gonzalez Funeral Home, 7209 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33614 with funeral services beginning at 1:30PM. Burial will follow at 3:00PM at Sunset Memory Gardens, 11005 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592.

Following the services, the family invites you to have a Potluck and Fellowship at 4pm at the Rose Dynasty Center 1253 W Memorial Blvd Lakeland Fl 33815 ( Entrance is the back of the building).