Denise Leann Tidwell

On July 31, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, Denise Leann Costa Tidwell, 56, passed away at home, surrounded by her family. Born September 27, 1969 in San Luis Obispo, California, Denise moved to Bakersfield in the 4th grade. She attended Rosedale Elementary and Bakersfield Christian Life Center before graduating from Aloha High School in Aloha, Oregon, in 1987. During the 17 years she worked for AT&T, Denise followed her passion for teaching. She earned her bachelor’s degree at CSU Bakersfield, and in 2008 completed her Master’s degree in Education and teaching credential with University of Phoenix. Denise was a teacher for Panama Buena-Vista School District for 18 years, and most recently was a beloved fifth-grade teacher at Whitley Elementary School. Denise fostered a love of reading and planted the seeds for lifelong learning in her students. She formed lasting friendships with her fellow educators, and during her illness she looked forward to their visits as their love and encouragement meant so much to her. For more than 45 years, Duran Duran was her favorite band. Some of her favorite memories were of seeing them in concert numerous times with best friend, Lisa, friends Buddy and Lisa, and daughter Emily, a highlight of which was meeting the band and receiving their autographs. Denise held a season pass to Disneyland for many years, making countless trips over her lifetime with both friends and family. She instilled a love of Disneyland in her children, and delighted in sharing the magic of Disney with them. Among her favorite attractions were Space Mountain and the Matterhorn. She also loved visiting Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, and no trip was complete without the purchase of her favorite churro toffee candy. She also loved reading for hours, watching Star Wars movies, and Pedro Pascal. Denise loved her family the most, including husband Brian, to whom she was married for 14 years. Her greatest role was that of mom to children Nolan Cooper, Emily Morris, and Grayson Tidwell. She was also a beloved aunt, devoted sister and daughter who will be missed by all. Denise accepted Christ as a young girl and remained a devoted Christian throughout her life. A member of Valley Baptist Church for over 30 years, she sang in the choir, served as life group leader, and taught Vacation Bible School. She loved attending women’s retreats, especially those her mother attended. She also treasured mission trips to Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, where she shared God's love with communities in need. Throughout her illness, Denise drew strength from her deep faith in God. Although she did not want to leave her children so soon, she accepted His plan for her life with peace and courage. When she could no longer care for herself, Emily became her primary caregiver without complaint. The strength, love and resolve she showed in caring for her mother belied her young age, and we are forever grateful Denise was able to spend her final days at home with dignity and grace. Denise is survived by her husband, Bryan Tidwell; children Nolan Cooper, Emily Morris, and Grayson Tidwell; stepfather Ron Cox and wife Johnnie; brother Darin Watson and wife Donna; sister, Stacey Quick; nephew, Callahan Hughes; niece Delaney Hughes and daughter Rynleigh, niece Hailey Brown and children Slade and Wren; nieces Lacey and Shay Quick; and extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Costa and Susan Cox; sister, Lori Costa Hughes; and niece, Jordan Watson. The family would like to thank the staff and nurses at Hoffmann Hospice for their compassion and support and thank the staff at CBCC for the exceptional care and kindness they provided over the years. In lieu of flowers, Denise asked that donations be made to a teacher of your choice for classroom supplies, or to the American Cancer Society

Denise Leann Tidwell

September 27, 1969 - July 31, 2026

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Denise Leann Tidwell

September 27, 1969 - July 31, 2026

365 Days of Grief Support

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