Denise D. Oyemaja

Denise D. Oyemaja was born July 29, 1953 in Portland, Oregon. She primarily resided in Portland, Oregon with brief stays in both Oklahoma City and Seattle, Washington, with her immediate family and friends.

Unfortunately, she dealt with ongoing health issues including liver and kidney disease, chronic headaches, diabetes, etc., that ultimately led to her death. One admirable aspect about Denise was her strength, even when coping with the complexities of her condition. She fought until the last days of her life and will always be remembered for her resiliency and powerful words of wisdom. Even when suffering - Denise strived to live to the fullest whenever she could.

Her father was Harrison Taylor and mother, Darnell Taylor-Wysingle who both lived in Portland, Oregon. Denise grew up with a large family and was the oldest daughter amongst her sisters. Her longest best friend is Monica Reed who like a sister- was always supportive and encouraging while she was ill. Some of her closest friends are, Althea Davis, Delonda Thomas, and Roslyn Mitchell.

Denise attended Jefferson High School in North Portland and later attended Portland Community College where she studied Nursing. She was employed as a caregiver and CNA for several years and also attended beauty school. She was married and divorced twice within her lifetime.

Denise had an incredible sense of humor and was able to make people around her laugh all the time with her stories recalling enjoyable memories and telling jokes. She had an immense love for her children/grandchildren - her family was a top priority within her life. Her authentic and generous spirit was loved by so many people – and she was well known within the Portland community.

Before she began to suffer from serious health complications, she would cook and organize gatherings for close friends/family for any holidays or special occasion. Denise was a trusted beautician for several years to her close friends. Her hobbies, interests, and activities involved cooking, watching movies, arts and crafts, sewing, crocheting, traveling/sight seeing, thrift shopping, dancing, and love for animals - especially cats. All of the people within her family and friends enjoyed her cooking and ability to make unique dishes. Her specialty being Nigerian food. She also enjoyed assisting her daughter with her floral business by making floral arrangements and preparing flowers. One of Denise’s dying wishes was to travel to Hawaii, but she also enjoyed visiting Las Vegas, Arizona, and the Oregon Coast on several occasions.

Denise was proceeded in death her father, Harrison Taylor; mother, Ruby Darnell Taylor; sisters, Karen Taylor, Jewel Taylor, Daphne Taylor and Tonya Taylor; and brother, Gail Taylor.

Sisters and Brothers: Rosie Taylor, Harold Taylor, Gerald Taylor, Donna Taylor, Harlene Taylor, Yodi Taylor, Lakeisha Taylor, Terrace Taylor, Cynthia Taylor, Sandra Taylor, Harriet Taylor, and Shawn Taylor.

Children: Toyin Oyemaja and Leland Douglas

Grandchildren: Leland Jr. and Leontre

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