CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF
Denise Elizabeth SUNRISE:3RD DECEMBER 1969 - SUNSET:26TH OCTOBER 2023
Wednesday 29th November 2023 | 10:30am Service Held at COGIC UK Headquarters, 127 Dunstable Road, Luton Bedfordshire LU1 1BW
DEATH IS NOTHING AT ALL.
I have only slipped away to the next room. I am I and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, That, we still are. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without effect. Without the trace of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same that it ever was. There is absolute unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you. For an interval. Somewhere. Very near. Just around the corner. All is well.
Order of SERVICE OFFICIATING OFFICER: Elder Paul Quinton
TRIBUTE Julett Burnett (Cousin)
PROCESSION
TRIBUTE Audrey Simpson (Cousin)
WELCOME & OPENING PRAYER Bishop A. Blake DD. CONGREGATIONAL HYMN Old Rugged Cross
TRIBUTE Amanda Abrahams (Friend) EULOGY Alma Simpson (Sister-in-law)
SCRIPTURE READING 1 Corinthians 15:50-57 Read by. Paulette Clarke (Cousin)
SONG TRIBUTE Leanne Robinson (Friend)
TRIBUTE Alex, Deanna & Ayden Wisdom (Children)
SPOKEN WORD Superintendent Geoffrey Folkes
TRIBUTE Dana Haughton (Sister)
FINAL PRAYER FOR FAMILY Jennifer Robinson (Friend)
VIDEO TRIBUTE Gospel Glory “Testimony Service” Introduced by Kamal Simpson (Nephew)
FINAL FAREWELL
CONGREGATIONAL HYMN We Have an Anchor
RECESSION & BENEDICTION Glory Be to the Father
Tributes
Denise, my baby, my daughter, you were so loving, so bright, so cheerful. You were everybody’s person. You always had the time for everyone. I didn’t know where you found it, but you always did. You always wanted me to be by your side. My time with you was never enough, you always wanted more. I wish I knew then what I know now and that is, for you time was running out. Oh my baby, I am so, so sorry. I miss you so much. I will always remember those early mornings when you would come into my bed. Looking back, I miss every moment. Moments of joy, moments of pain, moments of tears, moments of happiness. I miss them all. You will always be in my heart. I will always be thinking of you. You are gone too soon but you are resting peacefully now in the arms of God.
Mum
Tributes
Denise - my dear friend who became my family. There are so many fond memories - far too many to share. I remember that you were the youngest of the Luton Sixth Form crew- but you always had the most to say! I remember that we loved attending concerts - meeting the Winans Brothers backstage was one of the highlights. I remember swapping stories and tips as we navigated the uncharted territory of raising children. I remember Boxing Days in Milton Keynes where you & ban us from & helping & in the kitchen while you cooked up a storm. When life became challenging you never gave up. In sickness, you fought the good fight until the very end. When we were called to the hospital and we gathered at your bedside to pray and sing, I was so amazed that you were the one encouraging usassuring us that you were at peace and encouraging us to keep the faith. I miss you immensely my dear friend; you are never far from my thoughts. But I take great comfort in knowing that you are now at peace and that one day we will meet again.
Paulette x
FROM
THE ROBINSON FAMILY To the Wisdom Family; As we reflect on our dear friend Denise, we remember the laughter, love and joy she brought with her. May her memory continue to inspire and uplift us. She was that person that always looked for the best in people, never afraid to speak her mind, passionate, understanding, caring, considerate and full of energy, always the perfect host. Rest in eternal peace Denise you will never be forgotten. “Blessed are those that die in the Lord as their works do follow them.” Rev. 14:13 The Robinson Family x FROM
MADGIE INGRAM (COUSIN)
No Longer will I see your smiling face No longer will I hear your jokes and join in your laughter No longer will I dance with you at your barbecue You have now joined your ancestors No longer will I mourn you, but will fondly remember you always, dearest Denise
FROM
DAVINA As a family, we are so grateful to have experienced the depth of your love. The memories and sisterhood we shared means the world to me. You taught me so much, and you were always in my corner. I will love and miss you forever. We will meet again...until then rest in perfect peace sis.
Tributes FROM
RICH & ABI AND FAMILY It is hard to find words to truly honour the phenomenal queen, that is Denise Wisdom. We are so grateful to God for allowing our families to come together over the years in true love, friendship, and unity, through our sons Ayden and Ben. Thank you, Dee for all the love, care, wisdom, laughter, encouragement and transparency that we shared with you and Andrew. You taught us so much and our lives will forever be enhanced and blessed for having known and been known by you; the gift that keeps on giving. As promised, Dee, we will be here for Andrew and your amazing children. Loving you for eternity, our dear sisterfriend. FROM
VERA (JAZZ) I will always remember your smile, your beauty, your positivity, and advice you gave me back on that fabulous holiday we all went on, to Miami in '97. Advice that still holds strong for me to this day. Thank you Denise. FROM
MERNA ELLIS (COUSIN)
Rest in peace, my beautiful Cuz. You were one in a million. You kept on fighting right until the end. You don't have to be fighting anymore. Sleep now, sleep, and take your rest. Love u always
FROM
RAEHBEN MONTROSE (NEPHEW)
To my dear Aunty Denise; I have thought about you every day since you’ve passed. You were the glue that kept our family together. Your legacy of love, helping others and keeping it 100% real will live on. I will forever miss you and thank you for every word of WISDOM you’ve imparted into my life. Love You x
FROM
MANDY & KIRSTIELLA Dee, We miss you more than words can say and the fact that you are no longer here will always cause us pain. Thank you for your love, friendship and treasured memories until we meet again. Keep flying high, we love you always.
FROM
NICK Denise Wisdom was a magical force of nature you see. Had amazing perception and clarity. In so many ways she was a God send. Whom you could 100% rely on and depend. Would fiercely defend you if you were her friend. Tell you straight if you were wrong and she could not defend. Our 1997 summer holiday, South Beach, Miami Was a magical time spent with friends like Andrew and Dee. Denise's humour for me is legendary. The laughter that followed will live in my memory. So for now l say goodbye to Dee. Rise in glory girl and rest easy.
FROM
PAT WILLIAMS Dearest Denise I’m so thankful and will never forget what we shared in those dark days. Your energy for life inspired and gave me hope, can never forget you and will miss you soooo much but my love it’s time to rest in God’s eternal peace. Love
FROM
WESLEY (NEPHEW)
Dear Auntie Denise, There is a saying that good things come in small packages. Well my loving aunt you were the epitome of that saying. I will always remember your spirit and your fearlessness to speak your mind. Rest Easy with God.
Tributes FROM
SO SOLID DAVENANT MUMS
So Solid Davenant Mums(SSDM) was a WhatsApp group set up on 25th September 2017, consisting of five, inspirational, encouraging, forthright Caribbean mothers. Unlike the average mentoring or coaching therapy our approach was ‘Each one Teach one’, centred around a specific subject matter our sons who met as friends at Davenant Secondary School and bonded throughout their teenage years to form a tight brotherhood. Our Sister Denise had a profound impact on us all, from the first Sisterhood meeting to discuss some of the themes associated with raising our sons, we will never forget Denise’s assertive entry…. ‘So hear what’ as she proceeded to share her experiences, where we unitedly tried to navigate solutions. From that moment, the impact of Denise’s ‘wisdom’ shone through, and as a former teacher, our attention was drawn by her ability to influence and inspire. Dee was always there, with her amazing way of hearing, seeing and understanding every situation with words of encouragement, transparency, humour, coupled with a damn sharp fresh wit! Our alliance saw us through a journey of light and dark moments, which enabled deep and meaningful connections. Dee had a big heart, and her love of embracing and uniting people was evidenced by delightful social evenings, where photo shots, and plenty laughter transcended her beautiful home. Dee, we are so blessed to have had you in our lives, with sorrow that you were taken from us far too soon. The middle of our Sisterhood, has left a void, although the value of your warm loving friendship is beyond measure. You know how loved you were in life and will always be remembered for your heart. Rest in peace our darling sister Dee. Abigail, Aletha, Lisa and Maxine. xxxx
FROM DAYNE HAUGHTON (NEPHEW) Growing up, the love and comfort in Auntie Denise's house always made it feel like a second home. For me, the most salient aspect of her character was her supreme confidence and self-assuredness. As someone who did not always possess these traits, she inspired me greatly and always encouraged me to express myself creatively at every opportunity, looking back, this has shaped me into the person I am today. She will be dearly missed.
Tributes FROM
JACQUELINE EDWARDS
FROM
SONIA BELLOT Dee, words cannot express the depth of gratitude I feel for the love and understanding you showered on me. Thank you for helping me throughout my life changing covid journey with your great knowledge & genuine unconditional love for me. You had already been going through so much yourself but you still made time for me which gave us an even stronger bond a real good connection & understanding of each other. Your unwavering love touched me deeply, you possessed the ability to see straight into my heart, understanding me without a single word. Dee, you truly embodied your name, ‘Wisdom’, which surpassed that of many, I am in awe of the depth of your knowledge and insight. Losing you feels unbearable, but I find solace in knowing that you are now free from pain, resting in paradise. You were an incredible mother, wife & family friend and I know how much you didn’t want to leave your loves behind. Though we may not understand why you had to go but one day clarity will come. I will cherish all the precious memories we shared together keeping them in my heart always
FROM
TAYE HAUGHTON (NEPHEW AND GODSON)
Auntie, even though you are no longer with us, I’ll never forget your wise and encouraging advice during school and when I was finding my feet in the workplace. Thank you for all you have given.
The week before Denise passed away, I had a dream that we were at a party singing Luther Vandross songs. She was so happy I’d just like to share this verse of one of my favourite LV songs When I say goodbye it is never for long ‘Cause I know our love still lives on It will be again exactly like it was ‘Cause I believe in the power of love I am so sorry you had to go Denise but God knows best and I know I will see you again
FROM
DIONNE (MYERS) FRANKS Your mum, your wife, your daughter, your sister and our friend was everything! She was beauty, encouragement, love and talent. She will be more than missed but has left a legacy that is stamped on the hearts of her family and friends. My prayers for you are that God will be your comfort, joy and your peace. Aunty Denise will forever be in my memories and in my heart.
FROM
DANA HAUGHTON (SISTER)
FROM
HANNAH MONTROSE (NIECE)
My Aunty Dee, You were more than an Auntie, you helped raise me. From school holidays spent doing the “hour of power” to the best Christmas’ playing intense games Scrabble. You’ve always been there pouring in positive affirmations and love. You kept it real with me and taught me never to be afraid of living life authentically. Your presence provided a sense of safety, love and most of all a good time. I will miss you forever!
A piece of my heart has gone forever, your memory I’ll always treasure. You’ll always be my inspiration, to fulfil my dreams and aspirations. Your words of wisdom were very concise, you knew what to say, you were so precise. I know you will always be near, the conversations we had, I will hold so dear. Kick back, relax, take your rest, until we meet again, Jesus knows and loves you best. Goodnight, my sweet, sweet Sister
FROM
ESTHER SIMPSON (NIECE)
Tributes
FROM
THE MITCHELL FAMILY (COUSINS)
Auntie Denise accepted me into the family like I was her own blood. Her home, always a safe haven, filled with the aroma of food and genuine love. A family away from home. Her hospitality like no other. What an incredible woman, in every sense of the word. She has inspired me in so, so many ways, but most of all to strive to be a blessing to others. I end with this, as words just cannot express how great Auntie Denise was - her legacy will live on. Until we meet again …
On behalf of cousin Marilyn, Mandy, the Mitchell family and extended family members at home and abroad, we are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear cousin Denise, one so young, vibrant and so full of life a bright and shining spirit. We shall remember Denise for her sunshine smile and her joyous laugh, and beautiful singing voice. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Andrew and her beautiful children and to all our Simpson family members, we are with you. “In the shadow of the Baobab tree, where stories linger like whispers on the breeze, we say: ‘When a soul departs, it leaves behind footprints in the sand, and though the river of tears may flow, memories, like a flame passed from elder to child, keep the spirit dancing in the hearts of the living.” Rest in power Denise Wisdom
FROM
ELAINE BARRETT FROM
I feel humbled and honoured to have had Denise in my life. I enjoyed our long, deep and meaningful conversations and debates on the phone and in person. Denise had a world of knowledge because she was curious. Denise listened and talked much because she was interested. Denise was an energetic, lovely, and a lively soul. Always upbeat and positive and beautiful inside and out. If anyone met Denise once, they would never forget her. A very, very sad loss. Thank you, Andrew, if not for you, I would not have known Denise. Luv you Denise and so did Miami.
HYACINTH AND THE MORRISON FAMILY It is with a heavy heart and profound gratitude for having shared a part of life’s journey with Denise Wisdom, she has left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. Denise’s strength was unparalleled, her wisdom profound, and her courage unmatched. She faced life’s challenges with a resilience that was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Denise fought with everything she had, not just for herself but for the family she held dear. Her determination to be present for every moment, to savor every experience, was a testament to her enduring love for those around her. After meeting her in 2017, my daughters perfectly captured her essence, describing her as truly one of a kind—poetic, wise, loving, and full of life! Denise was the kind of person you only had to meet once, and from that moment on, she etched herself into the tapestry of your memories. Denise, you were a source of wisdom, and a paragon of courage. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know you. Dear friend, and may your spirit continue to shine brightly.
FROM
AMANI (NEPHEW)
My Auntie Denise was the life and heartbeat of the occasion, always ready and willing to kick-it with the yout’ dem, whilst being the warm-hearted, hospitable, loving, nurturing motherly figure who looked out for all her nephews and nieces as if we were her own children. From coming round to our house in Rotherhithe to babysit me and my brother when I was in my tiniest form, diligently giving me vocal training in her house during my teenage years, to suggesting areas for me and the growing family to move to and offering a financial advisor for me in my adult years and having me and the family stay at her yard and feeding us all with her hearty meals, the list goes on. My Auntie Denise fully looked out for me as if I was her very own son…. I can’t come to terms with losing such a wonderful Auntie who blessed our family with many moments we cherish and who always brought the wider family closer together throughout the years of her life…. Above all, I thank God for the faith in Jesus Christ she showed and the example she was, in the face of adversity, to all her extended family in the latter years of her life. Love you Auntie Dee. You are sorely missed.
Tributes FROM
REE REE
Thank you for being the best friend anyone could ask for; you are a reallife superwoman. Thank you for seeing all the good things the world has to offer, even in the sad times, inspiring everyone to be the best version of themselves, Thanks for living up to your name ‘Wisdom’, as you are the wisest woman I know. Thank you for never giving up. I’m going miss our talks, txts and laughs… but I will keep our promise. You rest well now my sweetheart. x
FROM
JULETT BURNETT Denise brought so much joy to so many people, her exuberant thirst for life is unmatched, she touched so many lives, especially mine, I will never forget her...
FROM
LEEANDA (NIECE)
Dearest Aunty Denise, How blessed we all are to have had you in our lives. Thank you for all of the love and support you have provided over the years. Your advice on life, love and work delivered in a way that was just so ‘you’ :) will always remain with me. Rest in peace, Aunty. You are missed more than words can express.
FROM
ESTHER To my lifelong Friend, Goodnight Dee, sleep and take your rest, see you in the morning…
FROM
AUNT ELLA (AUNT TOM) AND FAMILY. Losing our beloved niece and cousin Denise, has left us with broken hearts but we are grateful for having known and loved her for the 53 years God loaned her to the family. We grieve with her Mom- Myrtle, Andrew and children, as well as her siblings. We are however comforted by the promise in Revelations 21:4: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away.” As well as “He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds” Psalms 147:3. Sleep on our beloved Denise, rest in the arms of Jesus. Your smile may have ceased for a while on earth, but it will light up Heaven. We can only picture the grand reunion with your dad and brother on the other side.
FROM
TAE TAE Aunty Denise is someone I will always look up to. She was the life and soul of her family, the centre piece. The one to tell it, like it is, even if it wasn’t something you wanted to hear.
Tributes
The one who expected an instant review after you tasted her food. You would often send me to the shop to pick up her favourite bottle of wine and bag of crisps! The one to help me write my application to get into university. The one who was always there. Aunty Denise will forever hold a huge place in my heart. I will continue to cherish all of our memories together until we meet again. I love you and I will miss you dearly!
FROM
AVRIL & FAMILY Our Darling Denise, the words to truly describe what you mean to us elude me… My big sister, protector, truth teller - the one who knew the truth that should be spoken before I did myself! Your light & truth has always driven out darkness and will continue to do so…You are a custodian of truth, light, goodness, culture - a power to be reckoned with! You love, you teach, you preach and speak prophecy. You have done your work here! Your children & everyone whose heart you touched are your legacy! Rest well my Forever Friend, Earth Angel & Soul Sister, we love you Denise,
FROM
JENNIFER (COUSIN)
Denise is my cousin/sister-friend. Wherever I was in the world, whatever state I was in, I knew I could pick up the phone and she would get back to me as soon as she could. Whenever I came home, I would travel to Milton Keynes for some good food and fellowship. I think back to all the hours and hours spent in the church van meeting at Beechwood Road and onto Dale Road, going to London for Saturday service. During the Summer holidays we’d always end up at Beechwood Road ready to start our adventures; the Blakes, Simpsons, Smiths and Ingrams - Denise an integral part of that time. She was such a special person, fantastic, larger than life. She accomplished so much with her time here, wife mother, teacher, role model and playwright! She gave great words of wisdom (pun intended), and after a serious, hard conversation, she would conclude with a punchline that would have me chuckling. I cannot remember a time I have ever left her presence drained or down. And I prayed that feeling was mutual. I know for sure she loved and was very proud of her husband and children. In everything she faced she remained strong and fought with all her might even to the very end. She will truly be missed by one and all. I love you, Denise.
FROM
ANDI MCLEAN A friend in need Is a friend indeed And indeed I can say You were a true friend Devoted and loyal A Queen, YES, a Royal That nothing could spoil Or taint til the end A mother to others Just like YOUR Mother And to your own Much more than their friend A wife and a teacher A mentor, a preacher Of knowledge and truth And faith that transcends So to say you’ll be missed is a big understatement, And the placement of this arrangement has been difficult at best But we go away knowing With our hearts sad but glowing For Denise your life showing Thou art truly blessed.
Denise THE
FAMILY OF
The Wisdom Family wishes to express our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the Church community; to friends and relatives for every act of support and generosity we have received during this time of bereavement. JOIN US AT THE INTERMENT: Selbourne Avenue Cemetery, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Borough, Buckinghamshire, MK3 5BX AND THE RECEPTION: Wilton Hall, Wilton Ave, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6BN (From 3-7:30pm)