Denise Lillian Leary

Denise was born to Thomas and Wanda Ossman in Nyack, New York on June 25, 1963, and grew up in Newburgh, New York. As an adult, she relocated to New Bern, North Carolina, where she spent her years serving the public. For over 20 years, Denise was a community First Responder and also volunteered for the City of New Bern Fire Department. She was a recipient of multiple awards for her services to the community, including Volunteer Firefighter of the Year.

Her passions included crocheting, gardening, and collecting natural artifacts. She was a lover of all animals, even possums found food and a home in the garage. Denise became like a second mom to many who were lucky enough to know her. She was selfless by nature and always willing to lend a helping hand, an ear to listen, and gave the best hugs.

Denise is preceded in death by her daughter, Lynne Booth and her father, Thomas Ossman.

She is survived by her mother, Wanda R. Ossman; husband, L.D. Clark, III; brothers, Glen Ossman and Eric Ossman; children, Leslie Booth, Shannon Wood, Nick Leary, and Jennifer Leary; Step-Children, Brian Clark and Christal Garcia and 11 grandchildren.

The family will receive friends for viewing at 2 p.m. and Memorial service will be 3 p.m. on Monday, February 6, 2023 at Cotten Funeral Home Chapel located at 2201 Neuse Blvd. New Bern, NC 28560 with Pastor Dale Clark officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Denise may be made to Colonial Capital Humane Society at https://colonialcapital.wixsite.com/cchs/donate

Arrangements are in the care of Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory.