Denise Ivery

Denise Marion Ulrike Ivery was born on September 29, 1972, in Germany, to Ingrid Ivery and Linwood Ivery Jr. 

From an early age, her family remembers a bright, thoughtful young woman whose intelligence was unmistakable. She was naturally quiet and observant; because she did not speak simply to fill the silence, her words carried weight when she chose to share them.

Books were one of Denise's great loves. She could read almost anywhere - on the couch, the floor, the porch, by a window, even in the bathtub - and could become so absorbed in a story that hours seemed to disappear. She especially enjoyed mysteries, romance, fantasy, and science fiction. Denise also loved gardening, particularly growing vegetables, and her family remembers the pride and peace she found in tending things that grew.

Faith and church were meaningful parts of Denise's early life. Her family remembers her being baptized, singing in the choir, serving as an usher, attending revivals, and participating in church activities. She also had a natural connection with children and was remembered for the ease with which she related to and cared for them.

Those who knew Denise remember her as intelligent, sensitive, and non-confrontational, with a bright smile and a distinctive presence. Tall and unmistakable, she was affectionately nicknamed "Tree." She valued connection and formed meaningful relationships with people throughout the different chapters of her life.

Near the end of her life, Denise looked through photographs of her young cousin Deuce's travels and lit up as she talked about places she still hoped to see. That memory is especially precious now: it reflects the curiosity, imagination, and dreams that remained a part of Denise.

Denise was preceded in death by her father, Linwood Ivery Jr.; her granddaughter, Gabriella; her paternal grandfather, Linwood Ivery Sr.; her maternal grandfather, Richard Lallmann; her maternal grandmother, Irmgad Lallmann; and Ehrenfried Lallmann.

Denise leaves to cherish her memory her only child, Audrica Ivery; four granddaughters, Dulce Hernandez-Ivery, Yaneli Vazquez-Ivery, Audrina Ivery, and Anndrian Williams; her sisters, Nicole Ivery- Royal (Derrick), Sherri Ivery (Shaun), and Alicia Ivery; her special sister and friend, Adrianne McQueen; her special friend and longtime companion of more than twenty years, Kenneth "Kenny" Cooper; and a host of extended family and friends.

Denise will be remembered for her intelligence, her love of books, her garden, her quiet nature, and the many lives that intersected with hers. Her story continues in the memories of those who knew and loved her.