Denise Ruth McInturff

Denise Ruth “Denny” McInturff, of Northern Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on November 17, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on September 21, 1950, in Arlington, Virginia, to Lillian Charlotte Miller Lingenfelter and William Spackman Lingenfelter.

Her life is difficult to capture in words alone. She was a devoted mother, a loving sister, and a cherished wife, but she was so much more than the roles she filled. She was caring, generous, and quietly heroic in ways that touched countless lives.

She had a gift for looking after others. She cared not only for her own family but for anyone who needed support — the friend with no relatives, the neighbors she lovingly helped in their final years, and the young woman upstairs whose rent she quietly paid during a difficult time. Every Thanksgiving, without fail, she brought pies — and a small plate of turkey — to the woman working the counter at the 7-Eleven on Maple Avenue. She noticed people. She saw need. She stepped in without hesitation and never sought anything in return.

Words like “selfless,” “caring,” “loving,” and “kind” only begin to describe her. Those who knew her understood that she lived those qualities every single day. From early on, she showed by example what love in action looks like.

Her humor and warmth could light up any room. She possessed a larger-than-life presence — a spark and a spirit that made her truly one of a kind. She weathered many of life’s storms with grace, always seeking the bright side and serving as a constant source of encouragement to those around her. She was remarkably sharp as well; few ever managed to best her at Scrabble or any game that wasn’t based purely on luck.

She was deeply loved throughout her life, and her passing leaves an immeasurable void.

She is survived by her children, Billy Martin (Jen), Cameron Tibbetts, and Andy Martin (Carrie); her stepdaughter, Amanda McInturff; her brothers, Bill Lingenfelter (Monica) and John Lingenfelter (Diane); and her former husband, Bill Martin. She will be profoundly missed by her grandchildren — Carrington, Ellie, Finn, and Deacon Martin; Nick and Ava Tibbetts; and Mia and Ivy Martin — as well as her many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Bob McInturff, and her brother, Tom Lingenfelter.

A celebration of her life will be announced soon and will be held in Northern Virginia.