Denise McCabe

Denise McCabe (Dee as she is known to everyone) of Wake, Virginia went home to be with her savior on October 31, 2024 after a valiant battle with small cell lung cancer. Dee was born in Richmond, Virginia on May 16, 1958 to the late John Colbert and Jean Anne Talley. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 24 years, Mark, her daughter Jessica Thompson (Zak), step-daughter Kenna Poulos (Travis), grandchildren Adriana (Puddin’ Cup), MacKenzie, and Jackson, siblings Darlene, Donna (Ron), and Johnny (Donna), nieces and nephews Morgan (Jason), John, Nick, Tripp (Ryan), and Tiffany. She is also survived by a host of friends. 

Dee lived her life out loud. She was vibrant and had a southern accent that no one is sure where it came from, but it would stop anyone in their tracks. Her blue eyes and big smile would truly light up any room she was in. If you were in her presence, you were honey, darlin, sweetie in a moment. She was the most giving and loving person you would come across. Dee donated to many charities, provided Christmas for many children, supported other families going through cancer treatment, and so much more. Even during the darkest hours of her own life, she was thinking of everyone else. This world is truly better because she was in it. Her greatest joy in her life was being a Grandma to her 3 grandchildren. She loved nothing more than spending time with them. 

Dee had a long career of 30 years in property management and retired in 2023 from The Franklin Johnston Group as a Regional Compliance Manager. Her big heart and kindness extended to her work family, many who have shared what a bright light she was at work. 

She attended Petsworth Baptist Church where she became great friends with Cathy and Tim Wallace. The family would like to thank Cathy and Tim for their wonderful friendship and introducing her to Petsworth which was a source of comfort during treatment. Even when she was admitted to the hospital you would find her watching service via YouTube in her room. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Maung of Riverside Health, Drs. Erba, Reddy, Mullikin, and Kirkpatrick of Duke University Hospital for their wonderful care of Dee during her battle with small cell lung cancer, AML, and brain cancer. 

Family, Dee wanted to be certain you were aware that she was the favorite daughter and Jessica was the favorite granddaughter. Now that this has all been settled, y’all are free to move onto the next competition you will come up with. Dee loved her family with everything she had and greatly enjoyed the friendly banter we all have. She will see y’all in a wink. 

Faulkner Funeral Homes, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel, Saluda, is assisting the family.