Denise Roberts James

**In Loving Memory of Denise Roberts James** 

*September 23, 1968 – November 6, 2024*

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved Denise Roberts James, who peacefully left this world on November 6, 2024, at the age of 56. Denise was born on September 23, 1968, at Greater Bakersfield Memorial Hospital in Bakersfield, California, to Laura Roberts Henning. As the cherished firstborn of Laura, Denise embraced her faith in Christ from a young age, becoming a member of Union Baptist Church and then St. Peters Church, where her love for God and service to others flourished.

Denise’s journey through life was one of dedication and passion, marked by a deep commitment to education and helping others. A proud graduate of Foothill High School (Class of 1986), she always held a special place in her heart for her alma mater. In 1993, she returned to Foothill as a math teacher, later becoming a counselor—a role she held until her retirement in 2024. Foothill High School was not just her workplace; it was her second home, and the staff were her extended family. Denise’s love for her students was immeasurable—she often referred to them as her "kids" and worked tirelessly to guide and support them. Her influence extended beyond the high school setting as she also taught math at DeVry University and served as a counselor at Bakersfield College, always offering her help to those in need. Denise’s heart for service extended even further when she pursued a second master's degree at National University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Driven by her deep desire to help others in new and meaningful ways, Denise earned this degree to expand her ability to support those in need. After completing her studies, she began providing counseling services at The Counseling and Psychotherapy Center, where she touched countless lives. Her compassion and dedication to her clients reflected her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, one person at a time.

In 1997, Denise met the love of her life, Patrick Henry James. Their connection was instant, and on February 14, 1998, they were married in a private ceremony in Las Vegas. On August 7, 1998, they celebrated their love with a beautiful ceremony at St. Peters Church, surrounded by family and friends who witnessed their deep commitment to one another. Although Denise and Patrick did not have children of their own, Denise lovingly embraced his children—Patrice, Michael, Shakita and Aubrey as her own. Her beloved nephew, Little Patrick, was more than just a nephew to Denise; he was like a son, and their bond was unbreakable. She cherished him deeply, and the love they shared was one of the greatest joys of her life, he was a constant source of joy in her life.

Denise’s love for family was boundless. She was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, and grandmother. The loss of her own mother, Laura, in 1994 was a pain Denise carried with grace throughout her life. She shared a deep and special relationship with her siblings—Rachel Lenix, Amanda Madkins-Choyce, Risasi Henning, James Henning, and Laura Daniels (whom she cherished like a daughter). She was equally loved by her in-laws, Darren Choyce and Miles James, and was a beloved "shero" to her nieces and nephews: Alanisha, Rathail, Kiandra, Javyn, Joshua, Jeyson, Joseph, Isaiah, Kali Rose, Alaynah, Xaiden, Xavier and Cevyn, and her adored grandchildren, Jada and Shawn.

Denise had an adventurous spirit and a love for travel. She treasured exploring new places, with Monterey and Hawaii being among her favorite destinations. Her trip to Israel held a special place in her heart, leaving her forever moved by the beauty and history of the land. Above all, Denise valued the time spent with family and friends, her laughter and joy filling every room. She was the very definition of selflessness, always putting the needs of others before her own and offering her heart without hesitation.

Denise's final act of love was her courageous battle with cancer. Her strength, grace, and determination to fight were driven by her desire to protect her loved ones from pain—a reflection of the immense love she had for them. Ultimately, God called her home, where she was reunited with her mother and niece, Phoenix Daniels, in His eternal embrace.

Though Denise is no longer with us, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and service will continue to inspire and guide us. While she will be deeply missed, we take comfort in the knowledge that she is at peace, surrounded by the love of her Creator.

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to Jennett James, niece Amerah Henning, and Sheliea Wiley for their loving care and unwavering support during Denise’s final days. We are also profoundly thankful to all who offered prayers, comforting words, and acts of kindness during this difficult time.

May Denise’s soul rest in eternal peace, forever cherished and loved by all whose lives she touched.