"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance," Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 NIV

Born on September 28, 2007, in Dallas, Texas, Dena JoyAnn Hubbard was a cherished daughter of Jackie Arnett and Damione Hubbard Jr. She was the youngest of her mother's five children and the oldest of her father's four children. Dena was a beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, & friend to many. No matter her placement in the family, her light, laughter, and love touched all who knew her.

Dena accepted Christ at an early age, beginning her spiritual journey with a heart full of faith. She later joined Concord Church, where she was baptized and actively participated in Concord Youth Ministries; gracing the Jubilee dance ministry and the Children's Choir with her energy and joyful spirit.

From a young age, Dena radiated creativity and compassion. She spent countless happy moments baking with her mom and sister, playing dress-up in her mom's clothes, and shoes, recording random fun videos, and enjoying endless days at Six Flags. She was also a proud little league cheerleader for the Colts football team, cheering for her big brothers with the same passion and spark she carried in every part of her life.

As she grew into her teenage years, Dena's vibrant personality blossomed even more. She found joy in painting, building intricate Lego creations, and creating fun and heartfelt TikToks. Dena looked forward to eating, laughing, and playing games at family gatherings & family game nights. She loved napping, but even more, she loved taking care of others, always looking out for her friends and family with maturity beyond her years. Dena was very in tune with her feelings. Whether she was hanging out with her older siblings & cousins or close friends, just being her authentic self, Dena made everyone around her feel special. If she was not feeling you, she'd definitely let it be known.

Dena attended grade schools within the Dallas, DeSoto, Lancaster ISDs. Dena spent her freshman and sophomore years at Lancaster High School before transferring to North Dallas High School, where she was a motivated junior. She voluntarily helped her classmates with their course work and lended a hand to her teachers. Ambitious and focused, she expressed interest in and even had the opportunity to graduate early—a testament to her drive and determination. Dena had already passed the ASVAB and was preparing to serve her country by joining the United States Army after graduation; a future she embraced with pride and purpose.

Dena was preceded in death by her Uncle Edgar Lee Smith, Great Uncle Anthony Arnett, Grandfather Anthony Bradford, & great grandparents. Left to cherish her memories are her parents: Jackie Arnett & Damione Hubbard Jr., siblings: Christian Alberty, Joshua George, Matthew Turner, Danielle Washington, Dylan Hubbard, Sydney Hubbard, Savannah Hubbard, grandparents: Carol Arnett (Gaylon Harrison), Edgar  D. Smith, Damione Hubbard Sr., & Mary Smith, godfather: Jason Reed, aunts: ReNeice Reed (Jason) & Shamira Bradford, "Aunties": Zena Hubbard, LaKiaDai Kiner, Shannon Clark (Russell), Nivea White (Brandon), & Jennifer Gormer (Orion), uncles: James Smith, Courtney Rowe (Brittanye), Dominic Hubbard, Deonita Hubbard, "uncle":Kevin Major, 1st cousins: Xavian Johnson (Abby), Javien Langston-Reed, JaNaiya Reed, Landen Rivers, Riley Watkins, Zayveon Hubbard, Zariyah Hubbard, Canell Carter Jr., Za'Lani Brown-Reed, Blair Reed, "cousins": Kaleb Bates, JonMichael Hobson, Jasmine Benton, Jarrett Gormer, Alicia Williams, & Gavin White, and a host of great aunts, great uncles, cousins, friends, and bonus family members.

Dena will be deeply missed but never forgotten. As we remember her we hold close the love she gave and the joyful moments she brought to our lives. Her legacy will live on in the countless hearts she touched.  It is with deep sorrow and profound love, we celebrate the life of Dena JoyAnn Hubbard, a beautiful young soul who passed away far too soon. Rest in peace, sweet Dena. Your light will shine forever!