On the morning of August 30, 2023, Carol “Denise” Gray Hines went home to the arms of her savior, Jesus Christ. Denise passed surrounded by her husband, children, while many others held her in their hearts. Her family extended far beyond those that were “related” to her.

Denise’s love, generosity, and willingness to accept anyone and everyone reflected her heart and personal definition of “family”. She didn’t care where you came from or what you had done, she would welcome you in. If you had struggled in life, she’d give you the chance and support to become better. If you had led a good life, she’d encourage you to keep growing. She gave a second change to those the world had given up on, welcoming many into her home. Denise’s love for Christ was apparent in all she did. She loved to serve at whatever church she was attending and would do anything that was needed.

Denise loved to have fun, go on adventures, and be surrounded by those she cared about, sharing stories and laughs. Some of her happiest memories were the little moments with her grandchildren that reflected the preciousness of life or a chance to show up to lighten the burdens of someone she loved. No matter how big or small the occasion was, when she saw you she always made sure that everyone felt welcomed. Denise put her passion into everything she did, form raising her family, pursing her double bachelors with honors in Behavioral Science and Psychology, and managing her own cleaning business.

Denise lived from her heart and shared it with everyone. If you knew her, you knew that all she ever wanted to do in life was make a difference in people’s lives. Whether offering to pay for a meal, find you furniture or clothes from a thrift store, or pray with your over the phone, Denise invested in people’s lives. She genuinely cared about people. Denise wanted the best for everyone if there was anything she could do to help, she wouldn’t hesitate to offer whatever she had. We will never know the full extent of the lives she touched, whether directly or indirectly.

Denise is survived by her husband, Darren Hines; sons, Chad Finch (Angie), Michael Hines, Braydon Hines, Hunter Hines, and Jake Hines; daughters, Michelle Johnson (Ryan), Heather Finch (Robby), Niecia Young (Bronson), Kaitlyn Jacobs (Jake), Kiara Stephenson, and Cashae Lazano; sisters, Kaylene Ashton, Pat Horn, and Debbie Bushman; grandchildren, Skyler, Ivy, River, Sage, William, Dodge, Addison, Kaden, Ryker, Remy, Kinzley, Alix, Lizzy, Grayson, Mack, Cody, Courtney, and Cotton; chickens, Mrs. Dotty, Dust Bunny, Black Eyed Sam, Black Eyed Susie, and Henifer.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Grant and Eline; sister, Karen White; uncle, Jay Gray; aunt, Jessie Gray; brother-in-law, Paul Ashton.