Deedra Lynn Van Dyke

Deedra Lynn Van Dyke, beloved wife, mother, Yaya (Grandmother), sister, aunt, and friend, departed this world on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. 

Though words fall short of capturing the essence of Deedra’s extraordinary life, a memorial gathering, and celebration of life will be held on October 5, 2024, celebrating her life in a manner befitting her wishes. Details will be forthcoming on the family Facebook pages in the immediate future. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have shown their love and support during this time. 

Deedra loved children and gave to St. Jude and Cooks Children's Hospital. In lieu of flowers please donate to the charity of your choice.

Born on July 25, 1952, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Syble and Lannon Wall, Deedra lived a life filled with love, laughter, and remarkable experiences. Deedra attended Sansom Park Elementary, Irma Marsh Junior High, and finally Castleberry High School where she graduated in 1970. Deedra was active in the Castleberry marching band, playing the clarinet. During these years, she established friendships that she would maintain her entire life. Deedra also attended Tarrant County Junior College, focusing on business courses. 

Deedra worked as an Office Manager, first for Summit Anesthesia, then later, for Dr. Vern Ellis before she moved overseas, and for Dr. Rick Cardenas after returning home to Weatherford, Texas. Deedra enjoyed making a home for her family once they moved overseas to Greece, Israel, and later, back to Greece. She was active in supporting both her family, and Richard's career, with great meals, parties, and business gatherings that were the talk of Lockheed Martin, all while being a constant and beautiful companion to Richard. Her peanut brittle was eagerly anticipated by many, and she was overjoyed to make it for everyone she could. 

Traveling with Richard was one of Deedra’s greatest pleasures, and together they created a lifetime of memories. After returning home, Deedra would often comment "been there done that" when she would see someplace that she had been on TV or in a movie. Deedra found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life, like sitting on the patio swing watching hummingbirds, and always cherishing her conversations with Richard.

She showed her capacity to love everyone she met and made their lives better for it. Known for her kind spirit and her ability to make everyone around her feel valued, Deedra had a unique gift for bringing joy to others. Her positive outlook and cheerful demeanor were a source of light to all who knew her.

Deedra Lynn Van Dyke will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the good fortune of knowing her. 

Deedra is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Richard Van Dyke; her son, Justin Clay Van Dyke, and his wife, Nicole; her daughter, Erin Lynn Johnson, and her husband, Mike; and her cherished granddaughters, Sydney Lynn Johnson, Reagan Mae Johnson, and Elizabeth McGarr. She also leaves behind her sister, Carol Wall, her nephew, Royce Bolton, and a wide circle of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.