Denise P. Meredith passed away unexpectedly on November 15, 2019, at 64 years of age. Denise was born in Wichita, Kansas, to Kenneth and Mary Lou (Haley) Meredith who preceded her in death.  She leaves behind her wife, "the love of her life" Maryalice Birk, two sisters, Deborah Arteaga (Mike Deyoung), Dina (Robert) Lehane, and brother Robert Meredith.  She also leaves behind her Yaya sisters Selket Myles and Kathleen Smith who she met up with in Cozumel every year. She leaves behind nieces and a nephew Rachael Arteaga, Rebecca Arteaga and Alexander Lehane. her three dogs, Mollie, Roxie and Widget.  Many aunts, uncles, cousins, loved ones and friends around the world.

Denise graduated from Bishop Carroll High School in Kansas. She received her bachelor's degree from American University in Washington, D.C. and her Masters from Wichita State University. Denise served in the Marines and reserves for 13 years. She was honorably discharged with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. Denise worked in the US Senate for Senator Bob Dole, she worked for Boeing Aircraft in Wichita, Kansas, for many years then moved to Mississippi with Raytheon and in 2004 moved to Lompoc, California. Denise loved Lompoc, she walked 4 miles a day. I am sure many locals have seen her walking.  She joined the ELKS recently and was planning on getting involved with the city when she retired. Denise loved to travel on vacation.  She believed in justice and equal rights for all, she donated to many organizations every year; New York Anti-Violence Project, Pacific Pride in Santa Barbara, Toys for Tots, Human Rights Campaign, CASA of Santa Barbara, Heifer International. She maintains a scholarship in her name at Wichita State University. She believed to whom much is given, much is required. Her last hope was to see a woman be elected as president and Trump to not be reelected.

A viewing will be held at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary in Lompoc, California, on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, from 12 to 2, with a funeral service taking place at 2. The graveside will follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery. A reception is being held after the services at Southside Coffee Co.