Rita Denney

     Rita Joyce Denney, 85, of Waco, TX, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2024, after a courageous and extended battle with cancer. 

     Born on September 25, 1939, on a farm in Riesel, TX, Rita was the daughter of George and Lorene Boatwright. She married her husband, Richard Denney, on August 24,1967. Rita dedicated much of her life to caring for others, serving as the owner of the TSTC Learning Center and Toddle Inn in Waco, TX, where she touched the lives of thousands of children over 37 years of service. Known for her unwavering generosity, compassion, and selflessness, Rita always put the needs of others before her own. Her legacy of kindness left an indelible mark on the community.  

   In her retirement, Rita found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished taking them to the zoo and other fun outings, creating lasting memories with the younger generations she loved so dearly. Rita was known for her warm, caring nature, and she was deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

     Rita is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Denney; her sister, Betty Spivey (Roy Spivey); her daughters: Jamie Goodnight, Renee’ Weck (Richard Weck); her son, Richard Denney; her grandchildren: Brandon Goodnight, Dylan Herren, Brian Herren, Cheyenne Nail, Landon Luton, Katelyn Drew Bolfing and Rianna Weck; her great grandchildren: Luke Bolfing, Fischer Nail, Blaire Bolfing, Laiken Nail and Emersyn Goodnight, and many nieces, and nephews. 

     She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Lorene Boatwright; her daughter, Melinda Herren; and her son-in-law, Drew Herren; her sister Ima Jean Raines. 

     The visitation will be held on Friday, December 13th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Home, 8220 Woodway Dr., Waco, TX. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, December 14th, at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Home, followed by interment at Riesel Cemetery where she will be laid to rest.

     Rita’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire all who know her. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital.