Denise H. Widmar
A Loving Tribute to Denise Widmar
On June 22, 2026, Denise H. Widmar peacefully entered into eternal life at her home in Clear Lake City, Texas, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 71 years old.
Denise was born on May 29, 1955, in Richmond, Indiana, to Marvin Mosgrove, a decorated World War II veteran, and his beloved wife, Bernadette Mosgrove. Marvin and Bernadette’s love story began during World War II, when they were married in Nancy, France. Denise grew up alongside her brother, Jack Mosgrove, and her sister, Annie Grossmann, in Richmond, Indiana, forming lifelong friendships and cherishing the values of faith and kindness that would define her life.
Denise devoted her professional life to caring for others. She worked with mentally challenged individuals and stroke rehabilitation patients at the University of Chicago, TIRR, and Methodist Hospital. Her compassion, patience, and gentle spirit touched many lives. Caring for others was never simply a career – it was her calling.
On April 17, 1999, Denise married the love of her life, Jerry Widmar, at St. Clare Catholic Church. Together they built a marriage centered on faith, compassion, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Their greatest blessing came in 2004 with the arrival of their son, Michael. Denise stepped away from her career to dedicate herself to raising and caring for Michael, especially through his early health challenges. Her efforts helped him overcome obstacles and lead to his future successes in science fair, swim and water polo teams at Clear Lake High School. Denise was his greatest advocate, strongest supporter, and most devoted mother.
Denise also found tremendous joy in serving her parish community through St. Bernadette Catholic Church’s Early Childhood Center, where she faithfully dedicated 15 years of her life. Her warm heart, gentle nature, and nurturing spirit blessed the lives of countless children and families, leaving a lasting legacy of love and kindness.
Family was always Denise’s highest priority. Alongside Jerry, she lovingly cared for their aging parents & his brother Bob, demonstrating the compassion and selflessness that characterized every aspect of her life. Together, Denise and Jerry also created treasured memories traveling throughout the Northwest, Northeast, Midwest, Florida, and Italy. As they approached retirement, they purchased an RV and planned to visit all of the National Parks.
Denise will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her servant’s heart, and the unconditional love she gave so freely to everyone around her. She possessed a quiet strength, a generous spirit, and a remarkable ability to make others feel cared for and valued. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the family she cherished, and the love she gave so completely.
Denise is survived by her beloved husband, Jerry Widmar; her devoted son, Michael Widmar; her brother, Jack Mosgrove (Kay); her sister Annie Grossmann (Carl); and many extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing her.
A Celebration of Denise’s Life will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church. A Rosary will be prayed at 10:00 a.m. before the Funeral Mass followed by a reception at the Church Parish Hall. Interment of her urn will take place afterwards at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial donations be made to:
- Coming Home Network International, P.O. Box 8290, Zanesville, Oh 43702, or
- Priests for Life, P.O. Box 236695, Cocoa, FL 32923.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
Denise put her heart and soul in everything she believed in: her family, her faith, and the formation of children. Denise’s influence will always be felt athome, in worship and in the people whose lives she touched.
Prayers And Condolence 🙏 To Mr. Jerry And
Michael. You Two will always be in my Daily Prayers
With sincere condolences I offer this prayer, from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings, for dear Denise. May God bless her soul and protect/uplift Jerry, Michael and the extended family in these sudden and challenging times!
O Lord, O Thou Whose mercy hath encompassed all, Whose forgiveness is transcendent, Whose bounty is sublime, Whose pardon and generosity are all-embracing, and the lights of Whose forgiveness are diffused throughout the world! O Lord of glory! I entreat Thee, fervently and tearfully, to cast upon Thy handmaiden who hath ascended unto Thee the glances of the eye of Thy mercy. Robe her in the mantle of Thy grace, bright with the ornaments of the celestial Paradise, and, sheltering her beneath the tree of Thy oneness, illumine her face with the lights of Thy mercy and compassion.
Bestow upon Thy heavenly handmaiden, O God, the holy fragrances born of the spirit of Thy forgiveness. Cause her to dwell in a blissful abode, heal her griefs with the balm of Thy reunion, and, in accordance with Thy will, grant her admission to Thy holy Paradise. Let the angels of Thy loving-kindness descend successively upon her, and shelter her beneath Thy blessed Tree. Thou art, verily, the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Generous, the All-Bountiful.
—‘Abdu’l‑Bahá
Denise will be remembered for her compassion and recognition for the Pet Therapy program at Houston Methodist Hospital. It was a privileged working with Denise at Houston Methodist and starting the Therapeutic Recreation Program on the Rehab unit. Denise loved and was devoted to her family and friends.
I will truly miss receiving Denise and Jerry yearly Christmas card and letters. She shared about her family, family trips and family projects.
My beloved Co-worker and friend.
I feel in my spirit God saying. “Well done my faithful servant”.
My prayers and condolence to Jerry, Michael and the family!
Lay-Chaplain Charlotte Toliver
What a wonderful person Denise was. We were so blessed to have her as part of our Helping Hands Ministry for so many years- always with a willingness to help and a lovely smile to go with it. May she rest in peace. And may God bless all her family with comfort and loving memories.
What a gift and blessing to be Denise’s friend. She taught us a lot about giving of oneself and being a loving wife, mother, and friend. Denise, may you be in the arms of our loving Lord and Lady. Please pray for us!
Denise, we will miss you so much, but we know you are making Heaven even brighter!! We will never forget your kindness, gentleness and love. It was such an honor to be your friend. One thing I know for sure is that you will taking good care of your wonderful husband Jerry and will be sending your love and prayers to him from Heaven. Until we meet again, dear Denise, Your friends, Lori and Joe Gutheinz
Denise will definitely be missed by all. The love in her heart for all people is an inspiration. My condolences and prayers to Jerry and Michael. May you cherish the memories of her love for you. She has touched my heart and I valued her friendship.
Denise,
You will be very missed! You were such a kind and compassionate teacher to our daughter (and countless others). You joyful personality bestowed such warmth to the St. Bernadette community.
Jerry, we are praying for the repose of Denise’s soul and for comfort to you and the family in this difficult time.
In Christ,
Hicks family
I consider myself lucky to have met Denise and offer my sincerest condolences for your loss. I wish I had more time to get to know her. When I lost my Father I told myself it’s not goodbye, just goodbye for now. In the meantime you have a work family that is thinking about you and will support you anyway we can.
Sincere condolences for the family and friends of Denise. A very respected, caring individual, she will be missed. RIP.
I feel truly honored to have worked alongside Denise at St Bernadette Preschool. Denise taught the older twos, while I worked with the younger ones, and together we formed a caring team. I cherish the warm memories of our time spent creating joyful crafts for our little ones. The love and genuine compassion Denise had for her students was evident in every detail, as she brought so much care and devotion to her classroom every single day. I will truly miss you, my dear friend.
Jan Rulander