Charlotte Denise Murks was born on June 14, 1956 in Fort Hood, Texas. She grew up in Florence, Alabama, and attended Coffee High School, and later earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Alabama – a place where her love of learning and passion for the arts took shape.

Denise married Michael Wayne Murks on June 19, 1976 and immediately moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Together, they eventually made their home in Panama City, Florida. They had one daughter, Rachel Anne, who Denise adored.

In Panama City, she served as the Program Director for Gulf Coast State College. A gifted writer and communicator, she authored numerous grants to assist single women in pursuing college degrees – especially in the fields of dental hygiene and nursing. Her work left a lasting legacy for many women whose lives were changed because of her dedication.

Denise was creative and full of life and had many interests. She loved to sing – her beautiful voice often filling the room with joy – and she graced local theater productions with her talent. She had the starring role in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof at the University of North Alabama. She also performed with the Kaleidoscope Community Theatre Group and brought her love of the arts to church stages and local events.

Her favorite joys, however, were found in simple pleasures: reading, writing, shopping, and being a member of the Junior Service League in Panama City. Above all, Denise cherished being a devoted mother. When Rachel was young, Denise embraced the role of cheer mom with pride and passion, supporting her daughter every step of the way.

Denise is preceded in death by her beloved father, Gayrell Emit Childers, and her uncle, George Robert Capps. One fun fact was that she was born on her father’s birthday, so they always shared birthday dinners until his death.

She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband, Michael Murks, her daughter, Rachel Murks, and her mother, Nancy Childers McAfee. Along with her two favorite sisters, Phyllis Crocker (Larry) and Lydia Collins (Butch). Her precious nieces, Leslie McNamara (Philip), Claire Keeton (Stephen), and one nephew, Ethan Swinea (Kimmie). Her great-nephews, Eli Barnett, Oliver McNamara, and Cooper Swinea. Her dearest cousins, LaDonna Owens, Randy Capps, and their families. Her precious aunt, Betty Capps.

Visitation will be held at Williams Funeral Home of Florence on Friday, July 25, 2025 at 12:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 1:00pm.