Denetta Dean Gravett, 85, of Orange, Texas, passed away on January 9, 2026, in Beaumont.
A memorial gathering will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Julian, Nebraska, on June 2, 1940, she was the daughter of Doris Dean Curtis and Leola Mae Bertwell Curtis. Throughout her life, Denetta devoted countless hours to volunteering, most notably at Thrift and Gift. She found joy and fulfillment in her volunteer work, where her warmth and enthusiasm inspired many. Denetta spent many years working at Walmart, beginning as a greeter, later moving to toys, and ultimately ended up in fabrics where her love for crafting and sewing flourished. Her creativity shone through in every project she undertook and not only showcased her artistry but also spread joy to those who received them. In addition to her many interests, Denetta was a faithful listener of KOGT, a radio station that brought much enjoyment to her daily life. She often expressed how much she missed it when it went off the air. Her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her, reminding us of the beauty found in giving back and embracing the simple joys in life.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Doris and Leola Curtis; and her sister, Frances Strayer and husband, Howard Strayer.
She is survived by her children, Rebecca Davis of Tallahassee, Florida, Robert “Clayton” Gravett of Orange, and Denetta “Diane” Thompson and husband, Freddie of Orange; her grandchildren, Edwyn Brown of Tallahassee, Florida, Justyn Brown of Tallahassee, Florida, Savannah Gravett of Orange, and Gillian Gravett of Orange; her great-grandchildren, Xavier Cayden Lewis of Tallahassee, Florida, and Jinora Jean Mackenzie O’Shea of Orlando, Florida; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.