It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Denise Schloman, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Denise, originally from Bedford and most recently of Merrimack, NH, passed away on Sunday June 1, 2025, unexpectedly due to complications from surgery, with family by her side.

Denise was the devoted daughter of the late Lt. Col. John E. Whitley and Mary Whitley. She is survived by her loving daughter, Kristine Gillis and Kristine's husband, Urban. Denise took immense pride in her three grandsons: Logan Gillis of Groton, MA, Dr. Devin Gillis of Knoxville, TN, and Brennen Gillis of Merrimack, NH. Logan, along with his wife Sara, blessed Denise with two great-grandchildren, Boden and Emmy. Devin, married to Kadianne, brought another cherished great-granddaughter, Ryleigh, into Denise's life.

Denise was also a devoted sister to Susan Bennett, Bob Whitley and his wife Muriel, and Tom Whitley, and his late wife Angela. She also enjoyed 17 years with her Yorkie Terrier Hunter.

She is predeceased by her late companion, Dick Porter, who passed in May 2024, and Kristine's Dad, Richard Schloman, who passed in June 2016. Their presence in her life shaped many of the stories she loved to share.

A woman of incredible resilience, Denise was a survivor of breast cancer, bladder cancer, and lung cancer, triumphing over each challenge with determination and grace.

She held a deep love for her family, spending countless hours cheering on her grandsons at baseball and football games, hockey rinks, and golf courses. Supporting them in their passions brought her immense joy, and she was always their biggest fan.

Denise had a passion for cooking and entertaining, finding joy in preparing meals that brought family and friends together. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her favorite dishes, creating cherished memories for all who gathered around her table.

She spoke fondly of her professional career at Millipore and Inframetrics/Flir among others, where she built strong and lasting friendships. She often reflected on her childhood years spent in the Philippines, as well as her time co-owning the Stumble Inn restaurant in Moultonborough, NH, a cherished endeavor with Dick in the early 1980s.

Following her retirement, Denise embraced adventure, traveling the country in a motor home, discovering new places, and creating cherished memories along the way.

Above all, Denise's life was a tapestry of cherished memories, laughter and love. Her greatest joy was her family. She was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, finding endless happiness in their lives and accomplishments. Her presence, warmth, and wisdom will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours in Shawsheen Funeral Home on Thursday June 12 between 5 PM and 8 PM. Funeral Mass in St. Michael's Church, 90 Concord Rd., Bedford on Friday June 13 at 10 AM. Burial to follow in Shawsheen Cemetery, Bedford.