Denice Reane Ranson, age 46, of Springfield, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026. She was born in Springfield on October 2, 1979, to the late Daniel Ranson and Jean Parker-Ranson. Denice was a woman whose life was defined by love, resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to the people she cared about. She had a heart that made room for everyone, and she had a gift for making those around her feel loved, supported, and valued. Denice devoted much of her life to education, a field she deeply believed in. She began her teaching career at MLK Charter School before continuing her journey at Mary Lynch Elementary School, where she touched the lives of countless children. Denice poured her heart into her classroom, always challenging her students to believe in themselves and strive for more. Her dedication and hard work were reflected in the accomplishments of her students, including this past school year when her class achieved membership in the "500 Club." For Denice, education was more than a career, it was a way of life. She believed in the power of hard work, perseverance, and opportunity, and she instilled those values in both her children and her students. In 2024, Denice proudly earned her Master's Degree in Education, an incredible accomplishment that demonstrated her determination and strength. Even while facing the challenges of cancer, Denice continued to live life on her own terms. She refused to let her circumstances take away her joy, her purpose, or her ability to love others. She was resilient, strong, and giving, always finding ways to show up for the people she loved. Above all, Denice was an incredible mother. Her children were her heart, and she took immense pride in each of them. She was also a devoted football mom, proudly cheering on her sons and supporting them every step of the way. Whether she was in the classroom, on the sidelines, surrounded by family, or simply enjoying life with the people she loved, Denice gave her whole heart. Denice will be remembered for her beautiful spirit, her strength, her laughter, her generosity, and the way she loved without hesitation. She leaves behind a legacy that will live on through her children, grandchildren, students, family, and the many lives she touched. Denice was predeceased by her parents, Daniel Ranson and Jean Parker-Ranson. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughters, Jaylynn Jimenez and Jazzlynn Jimenez and her fiancé, Eric Rodriguez; her sons, Ivan Miller and Mason Glaze-Ranson; her sisters, Heidi Bosworth and her husband, James, Patrice Ranson-Dockett and her husband, Adrian; her brother, Daniel Ranson and his wife, Calla; her grandchildren, Amir and Brycen Rodriguez; her aunts, Marcia and Marie; her nieces and nephews, Devon, Kiari, Dallas, Kylie, and Vaughn; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, friends, colleagues, and former students who loved her dearly. Services will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at:

St. John's Congregational Church
45 Hancock Street Springfield, Massachusetts

The New England Funeral & Cremation Center has been entrusted with Denice's arrangements. Please visit nefcc.net to leave remembrances and words of sympathy for the family.