Denise Michele Earnshaw

Denise Earnshaw, a devoted mother, compassionate nurse, and lifelong lover of laughter, music, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was 67.

Denise was born on July 27, 1957, in Maryland to Rhonda and George Elkins, and grew up alongside her sister, Kim, and brother, Steve. After graduating from Towson High School, she found her calling in caring for others and began her nursing career in 1978 at Union Memorial Hospital and Johns Hopkins. From that moment on, she poured her heart into helping people—bringing comfort, healing, and fierce advocacy to every life she touched. Her decades of service left a lasting mark, especially during her impactful years at Amedisys. Denise’s strength, humor, and unwavering dedication made her not only a trusted caregiver, but a true friend and force of nature in every room she entered.

Above all, Denise was an incredible mother to her children, Jason Earnshaw, Megan Earnshaw, and bonus daughter, Ashleigh, who were the light of her life. She also adored her four-legged family—all of her grandcats and grand dog Patches —and welcomed all animals with open arms and a warm heart.

Whether she was cracking crabs at a seafood feast, dancing to some Motown, ABBA or country, or cheering on the Buccaneers, Denise embraced life with joy and grit. She loved a good grape shot, a cold beer at the beach, and always kept her sense of humor—especially during her courageous battle with cancer, which she fought on her own terms, with unshakeable grace and independence.

Denise leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and fierce love. She truly was the original Dancing Queen—full of vibrancy, resilience, and heart.

In true Denise fashion, she wanted this to be a celebration—nothing too serious or stuffy. Please feel free to come as you are and honor her by wearing your favorite coastal blues, or black if that’s what feels right for you. Let’s raise a glass, share a laugh, and remember her the way she’d want to be remembered—with love and joy.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Denise’s friends and community for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. If a life is measured by the love we give and the lives we touch, then Denise’s spirit would carry on for eternity.

A memorial visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Holloway Funeral Home, with a service of remembrance starting at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions maybe made to Oldsmar Cares , in Denise's memory. 

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