Denise McKenzie Cantu

Denise McKenzie Cantu, 62, of Kemp, Texas went to be with the Lord on December 3rd, 2024 with her family at her bedside. Denise was born on October 5, 1962 in Kaufman Texas to parents James Waymon McKenzie and Barbera Ann Blythe McKenzie. Denise was a graduate of Kemp High School class of 1981.

Denise lived a life where she never met a stranger and would always tell people how blessed she was. Throughout her life when not working she could be found at the dragstrip on her first brother-in-law’s race trailer or at Lakeplex Lanes bowling alley in Seven Points. It was at the latter that she developed some of her closest and longest lasting friendships. Many nights would run into early mornings around the same table playing Tonk and drinking coffee after a full night of colorama and pot bowling.

In her last years the bowling alley was exchanged for time with her grandbabies and she cherished her new title of Nana D. The moments spent with her growing family were some of her most cherished moments where she would relish in their presence.

Denise is preceded in death by her parents, and her older brother Jimmy McKenzie Jr,

She is Survived by her son; William McKenzie: Daughter-in-law Erin Cox McKenzie: her grandchildren Olivia Grace, Amelia Joy, and Judd Michael McKenzie: Her Sister Nicki Mckenzie West Wilhite McKinney and husband Mark, Brother Jeremy David McKenzie, Sister-in-Law Jocelyn Davis McKenzie and Nephew Jacob. Nephew Justin West and his wife Katie. Nephew Jeff West Jr. Niece. Cheyenna Tellez and husband Ivan. Along with a host of other cousins and extended family members.

Honorary Paul Bearers are William McKenzie, Jeremy McKenzie, Justin West, Cary David Tischler, Shane Tischler, and Jesse Tischler.