Denna was born on July 3, 1958, to Dan and Rachel Wallis in Oklahoma City. She attended Newcastle Public Schools and graduated from NHS in 1976. She married the love of her life, right out of high school, and they loved each other for 50 years.

God gave Denna many gifts to share with those she loved. Her defining trait was the way she would selflessly care for others, particularly her family. Her hobbies included sewing, reading, tending her flowers, and cooking delicious meals for family.

Denna’s favorite role in life was that of Memaw. Spending time with her three grandsons brought her great joy. She loved watching them play as little ones and cheering for them as they competed in sports as they got older.

Her physical limitations would not keep her from their big moments when she got to see them shine.

As her physical pain and suffering grew, so did her desire for God’s word. Reading the Bible was her highest priority each day. She often watched sermons online and encouraged others in their faith by sharing verses and praying for others.

Her time on earth was briefer than some, but the impact she had on others is immeasurable. Denna’s legacy of caring for others will multiply over generations, as those she impacted go on to love and serve others. She is proof that no life is small, and no action is without a ripple effect.

Denna was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Clayton, Bill and Fred. She is survived by her husband, Buddy; her daughters, Tisha Longnecker, of Newcastle, and Kim Galt of Perkins; three grandsons, Corbin, Caleb, and Collin Galt, all of Perkins; one sister, Jan Yancy and husband Ron, of Newcastle; one brother, Mike Wallis and wife Lynda, of Blanchard; along with many nieces, nephews and friends that she loved dearly.

Memorial services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Woodland Hills Baptist Church, 21 S. Hwy 76, Newcastle, OK.