Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1956

DIED

2024

Denise McElhiney Obituary

Denise Phillips McElhiney, 68, Morgan Hill, CA, passed away on October 3, 2024 from cancer.

Denise was born in Napa in 1956, raised in San Jose, and settled in Morgan Hill. After graduating from San Jose State University, she worked in credit and collections.

In the hope of happiness and prosperity for future generations, she proudly modeled lifelong learning, devotion to one's country, and conservative values. She will always be remembered for her love of her family and country.

Denise is preceded in death by her father, Roland Phillips. She is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Rob McElhiney and their children Robyn Palmer (Chris) of Salt Lake City, UT, Brianne Noonan (Patrick) of San Diego, CA, and Aaron McElhiney (MaCall) of Salt Lake City, UT. Denise was admired and cherished as "Nonna" to her five grandchildren. She is also survived by her mother, Carol Marie Foster of Pebble Beach, and her brother, Jason Phillips of Twain Harte.

A private celebration will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations to Wreaths Across America or Hillsdale College are appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Gilroy Dispatch from Oct. 21 to Nov. 8, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Denise McElhiney

Not sure what to say?





6 Entries

Wendy

April 24, 2025

Wendy

April 24, 2025

Always in our hearts!

Patty, Mike, and Wendy

April 24, 2025

Dear Rob and Family,
Today, Denise's Birthday, brings thoughts to one of her many selfless endeavors...Wreaths Across America. She spoke about it, was passionate about it and acted on it. She will always be remembered as a true patriot in every sense of the word and the heart of our family.

robyn

November 21, 2024

High school years.

Doug Wilber

October 29, 2024

I was shocked and I am so sorry to learn about Denise's death. I was getting ready to call her for some election advice when I received your card.
She was always helpful to me politically in her kind and gentle manner. My wife and I used to work in her Republican registration booth in Morgan Hill.

Jerry & Roz Emery

October 27, 2024

So very sorry to lose such a wonderful lady. Such a positive person who lit up the room. We will contribute in her memory to Hillsdale College.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results

Make a Donation
in Denise McElhiney's name

Memorial Events
for Denise McElhiney

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Denise's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Denise McElhiney's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more