Deborah Denise Rose Moulton

Deborah Denise Rose Moulton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and Educator, left this earth to sing with the heavenly angels on August 24, 2024 after a year long battle with ALS. Born in Gorman, TX, on June 20, 1941, to Dorothy and Neal Rose, Denise’s passion for music ignited at an early age. The family moved to Morton, TX, where she spent countless hours singing with the family and playing piano alongside her mother and sister, Deanna. Throughout her school years, Denise was actively involved in choir and excelled academically. She was honored as Lion Club Sweetheart, Miss Indian Capers, served as Editor of the school paper, and held leadership roles in the choir, Junior Class, FTA, and FHA, as well as being a soloist and organist at First Baptist Church Morton.

Denise attended Texas Tech University, where she studied Elementary Education and participated in a variety of campus activities. She was a member of the Tech Singers, served as Music Chairman for Zeta Tau Alpha, and was a finalist for Miss Lubbock. Additionally, she was a Tech dorm Playmate and a Maid of Cotton Runner-up, proudly riding in the 1961 Cotton Bowl Parade.

After graduating in 1963, Denise moved to Dallas to begin her teaching career. There, she met Ted Moulton, her “blue-eyed” love, on a church date that included a Cowboys game. They married in 1965 and later settled in Richardson, TX, where they raised their two children, Michelle and Todd. Together, they shared a love for God, travel, sporting events, dancing, gardening, and community involvement.

Denise loved the Lord and was deeply involved in her church community. She was instrumental in starting the first Special Education Sunday School at First Baptist Richardson with her husband Ted and also formed a handbell choir that performed at various events. Denise sang in the church choir and was a member of the New Vision Singers, alongside teaching Children’s Choir, sharing her love of music with countless young people.

Denise dedicated her life to education, earning a Master’s Degree in Supervision in Elementary Education from UNT. Her 40-year career began in Dallas and soon moved on to the Richardson Independent School District including roles as a music teacher, Elementary Music Coordinator, Assistant Principal, and Principal. She initiated innovative programs and earned grants to enhance student education, and her students fondly remember the 6th-grade musicals, shows, and activities she directed. After semi-retiring in 2001, Denise remained active in education, teaching Educational Psychology at Richland College and serving as Principal on Administrative Assignment for RISD. Later, after she and Ted moved to their Lakehouse full time, she opened the new state-of-the-art Mt. Vernon Elementary School as Principal.

Denise’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She ensured there was always a full meal on the table and loved to sew, crafting many dresses, costumes, and home decor. Her home, meticulously decorated, was featured in several home tours. Denise also enjoyed making jewelry and stringing beads for her business and friends. She traveled the world with Ted, her friends and special trips with her mom and sister. She was active in the Mt. Vernon church and community and loved their life there. Because of health reasons, Denise and Ted made the difficult decision to move back to the city to The Traditions Senior Living. She stayed active in all events bringing joy and laughter to the other residents. In her last year, even while struggling with ALS, she started and directed the 1st Senior Traditions Choir that is continuing on her musical legacy.

Denise is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ted Moulton; daughter Michelle Lindle; son Todd Moulton; sister Deanna Rose VanPelt; grandchildren Courtney Rose Lindle, Cally Alexandra Lindle, Tanner Austin Lindle, Makayla (Brandon) Rose Johnson, Meredith Jean Moulton; cousins Cassie Dean Wheelis, Debbie (Stacey) Dean Smith; and many nieces and nephews.

Denise will be deeply missed for her vibrant spirit, passion for music and education, and unwavering love for her family. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday Oct 26th, 10am at a First Baptist Richardson, 1001 N Central Expwy, Richardson TX 75080. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the ALS Association or Parkinson’s Foundation in her memory.