Denita Louise Fetters Powell
Denita Louise Fetters Powell (Dede), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great‑grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on June 3, 2026. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Powell; her sons, Josh Charles and Sean Powell; her grandchildren, Angel Duke and Cayden Powell; and her great‑grandchildren, Juliet Garner and Jacob Garner — all of whom adored her and will carry her memory forward.
Dede is also survived by her mother, Norma Credit, who continues to be a source of strength and love for the family. She was preceded in death by her fathers, Darwin Fetters and Earl Credit, and by her sibling, Rick Credit. She is further survived by her siblings, Deborah Gross; Darwin (Buzz) Fetters (Pauletta); Terry Credit; Diane Nakoff (Nick); Dorene (Dody) Alford (Derek); and Darona (Roni) Smith. She also leaves behind a loving extended family of nieces, her nephew, and a host of great‑nieces and great‑nephews — all of whom loved her dearly and were touched by her kindness throughout their lives.
Service and Duty
Dede proudly served more than 20 years in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Master Sergeant. She served during the first Gulf War, including Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, where she contributed to critical missions with dedication, courage, and professionalism. After retiring from the Air Force, she continued her life of service with the Texas Department of Public Safety, working in the Disaster Preparedness Division of Emergency Management. In this role, she helped oversee statewide readiness and response for hurricanes, flooding, and natural disasters. Her work protected countless Texans, and she remained deeply committed to public safety until her retirement.
Strength and Character
Dede was the kind of Wonder Woman who never needed a cape — she carried herself with integrity, humility, and a quiet strength that spoke louder than words. She devoted her life to serving others, both in the United States Air Force and in Texas emergency management, protecting communities and saving lives without ever seeking recognition. Her greatness was steady, selfless, and real, reflected not in what she said about herself but in the countless lives she touched through her service and her character.
Art and Legacy
After completing her careers in military and state service, Dede embraced her lifelong love of creativity by founding Lou’s Quilting Studio. What began as a personal passion grew into a thriving quilting business known for its craftsmanship, artistry, and heart. Her quilts were treasured gifts — each one stitched with care, warmth, and her unmistakable attention to detail. Through her studio, she shared comfort, beauty, and joy with her community, leaving behind a legacy of handmade love that will be cherished for generations.
A Life of Quiet Greatness
Dede’s life was defined by service, strength, and a profound kindness that touched everyone who knew her. She led with compassion, lived with humility, and gave generously of her time, her talents, and her heart. Whether protecting communities, comforting loved ones, or creating beauty through her quilting, she poured love into everything she did. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she strengthened, the family she cherished, and the example she set of quiet courage and unwavering integrity. Though she will be deeply missed, the impact of her life will continue to shine through the people and the memories she leaves behind.
We release her with love, grateful for the life she lived and the love she gave.