Norma Jean Denney

norma denney
Norma Jean Denney was born to Maurice and Norma Smith on December 10, 1937 in Ennis, Texas. To relatives and friends she was always known as Jean. Her growing-up years were in Ennis where she was active in school and church activities, including cheerleading for the Ennis Lions. After high school graduation, she started her college career at TCU. After two years, she transferred to The University of Texas in Austin, earning a degree in education in 1960. While there, she met an engineering student named Gary Denney, and a special bond was started that resulted in a marriage of almost 59 earthly years, but one that will last eternally. Jean was a teacher of young children for a period spanning 39 years, 17 of which were in preschool education. One of her more memorable teaching positions was at a one room schoolhouse in Minnesota where she was the only teacher for six grades for the Spring semester. Closer to home, her example of the importance of education was instilled in her own children. She loved music, especially musical theater. Taking advantage of touring Broadway shows while living in the Dallas area, they were able to see over 40 musical productions, some multiple times. Her devotion to church and Christian example never faltered. Serving and comforting others was a part of her makeup, going on youth mission trips, working on home repairs for the less fortunate, and participation in or leading countless other activities. Jean is pre-deceased by her parents; her son Garron Denney; and daughter Jill Denney. She is survived by her loving husband Gary; her daughter and son-in-law Laura and Brad Peel; and her grandchildren Shelby Denney, Katherine Peel, and Andrew Peel. Jean loved her children and grandchildren dearly and was always so proud of them and their accomplishments. A memorial service will be held at Wimberley United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 25 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that remembrances be sent to Barnabas Connection in Wimberley or a charity of the donor’s choosing.

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  1. I had the pleasure of working with Gary and Jean during the sale and purchase of their homes from Wimberley to New Braunfels and so grateful I was able to visit with them both in their home recently. I had no idea it would be the last time I would see Jean. I always admired her kindness, sweet smile and her talent to be able to make her homes beautiful with her ability to know just the perfect placement of furniture and decor. She made her homes feel like home. She had the sweetness and dignity of a southern belle . I know she was excited about her bathroom remodel project and I am sure she is already setting up a beautiful home in heaven to welcome her loved ones reunion there. Much love and prayers to Gary and family through this difficult time.


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