Denise Upchurch

Glover Funeral Home of Dothan

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Posted by: Glover Funeral Home
[email protected]
334-699-3888
Date: May 17 2023 6:12 PM

Denise Upchurch, a longtime resident of Dothan, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at the age of 70 following an extended illness. She died with her loving husband of 50 years, Tom Upchurch, at her side.

Denise was preceded in death by her mom and dad, Dorothy Smith and Denham Smith, her older brother, George Smith and one favorite niece, Jennifer Smith.

She is survived by her husband, Tom Upchurch of Dothan; a daughter, Heather Manley (Chris) and two grandsons, Julian and Matthew Manley, all of Newnan, Georgia; a younger brother, Kenneth Cline (Denuta) and a niece of Tennessee; also, a younger sister, Sarah Smith of New Orleans, LA, another niece, Paula Jones (Reg) and their three young children of Hattiesburg, MS.

Denise was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi on November 2, 1952 to Denham and Dorothy Smith. She was raised in Jackson, MS and College Park, GA, graduating from North Clayton High School in College Park. She attended the University of Southern Mississippi, the Alma Mater of her mom and dad, and finished her schooling there majoring in home economics.

She returned to College Park after finishing her education and met, fell in love, and married a young Army officer, Tom Upchurch who was deep into his career as a helicopter pilot and aviation safety officer.

Denise and Tom were married for 50 years and shared a life of happiness and adventure. Tom retired as a soldier and then as a department of the Army civilian at Fort Rucker in 2012. They resided in Dothan since 1995.

Denise was a professional secretary and health care specialist for many years in Georgia, Virginia and Alabama. She most recently served as church secretary and administrative assistant to Reverend Freddie McCain at Northside Methodist Church and Skipperville United Methodist Church.

She was well respected in the Dothan District of the United Methodist Church.

Denise for many years owned and ran a farm and ranch in New Augusta, MS where she eventually planted her pasture land in pine plantation trees. After 20 years of careful stewardship, she harvested her trees in 1998. Her property was adjacent to her maternal grandparents in New Augusta.

Denise was a longtime and current member of First United Methodist Church in Dothan, and also the Progressors Sunday School Class. She had recently served on the missions committee, helping guide church policy.

Denise worked with her husband, Tom, in support of projects he oversaw for the United Methodist Mens’ Club. She was very proud, especially of the many wheel chair ramps the club members built for poor people in the area. She was always there with food and support for the club workers. She also contributed substantial funds for those projects.

Denise was much loved and respected by her family and church and will be sorely missed.

A private memorial service will be held per her wishes on Thursday, May 18, 2023. The Reverend Christopher McCain will preside with Reverend Allie Freeman supporting.

Glover Funeral Home has charge of arrangements. (334) 699-3888.

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