Lynette (Lynn) Dennis, 76

Heaven has awaited the arrival of retired teacher and educator, Lynnette (Lynn) Dennis, age 76, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She left this world on Monday, Dec. 6, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Surrounding Lynn were her loved ones, who will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest. Lynn was a beautiful Christian woman with a solid faith who exuded grace and charm.

She’s inspired many, and left us with a gift, encouraging us not to be saddened when she’s gone, but to rejoice with her when she entered the eternal pearly gates with enthusiasm.

Lynn was born May 29, 1945, in Coeur d’Alene to Pleasant “Sunny” and Verna (Adsley) LeFrancis. She was raised in Lewiston, Idaho, and later returned to Coeur d’Alene where she graduated high school, then studied two years at North Idaho Junior College. Her first year of teaching was in Libby, Mont., where she lived with her sister, Marsha.

She received her bachelor’s degree in education at Whitworth College in Spokane, Wash., and completed her master's degree at Eastern Washington University at Cheney, Wash. Her love of children led her to become a teacher and she put the “class” in classroom, teaching for 35 years. She also traveled the United States, conducting teacher training for Project READS.

As a lifelong educator, Lynn had teaching skills that went beyond the classroom. She graciously taught many to “Let Go and Let God” and helped all of us strive to be better versions of ourselves.

In 1974, Lynn married the love of her life, William “Bill” L. Dennis. They were married for more than 47 years. She adored Bill’s two sons, David and Mark, and loved her role in raising them.

Lynn and Bill enjoyed a full life together. They were avid skiers at Schweitzer Mountain. Friends and family were important to her and they loved RV camping with them for many years at the Moyie River.

Lynn and Bill had countless adventures at their Snake River cabin, jet boating and fishing for steelhead. They also enjoyed whitewater rafting on the Grand Ronde and Salmon rivers. Lynn also loved her Yorkies to the point of even including them on Harley rides.

The Thanksgiving holidays meant an extended family gathering at Fairmont Hot Springs in Canada. Both sides of the family enjoyed the tradition that continued for many years.

Lynn and Bill enjoyed all kinds of dancing, including Western line dancing and clogging while spending winters in Yuma, Ariz. At first, Lynn didn’t like the desert, but learned to love it and they snow-birded there for 17 years.

One of Lynn’s greatest passions was entertaining in their home. Until her body couldn’t keep up with her desire to do this, she was also a gracious hostess for several fashion shows at their Tuscany home in Yuma.

Her pleasant personality was contagious. Even in difficult, painful and disappointing times, Lynn remained at peace, radiating compassion and not complaining about her personal struggles. Instead, she counted them as a blessing. This positive outlook impacted all who knew Lynn. We all feel fortunate and honored to have had her in our lives and to have loved her beyond measure.

Lynn was the epitome of grace and elegance, quick to offer a smile and word of comfort. She was uneasy with discord and strived for unity, seeing the good in everyone. She practices her faith this way, leaving a legacy of kindness and understanding for others, despite any differences. She was outgoing, upbeat and loved a good book or movie as well as sharing good food with friends and family.

She appreciated humor and loved a good laugh. She often played the “straight man” for Bill’s many jokes and stories.

Lynn had a pure heart. She was a kind, soft and gentle soul — an angel on earth and a joy to know. As Jesus welcomed His faithful servant home with open arms, those who remain will miss her very much and will always hold her close to their hearts.

Lynn was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She leaves behind her husband Bill of Coeur d’Alene, brother Richard “Dick” (Nadine) LeFrancis of Lebanon, Ore., sister Martha (Ken) Peston of Kalispell, Mont., granddaughters Jadyn Dennis and Catlin Clark and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins, sister-in-law and husband Joan and John Pucci of Sandpoint, Idaho, brothers-in-law and wives Donn and Doniece Dennis of Dalton Gardens, and Dale and Barbara Dennis of Coeur d’Alene.

She was preceded in death by sons Mark Dennis and David Dennis and granddaughter Nicole Dennis.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of North Idaho at 2290 W. Prairie Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815.

Lynn will be honored at her Celebration of Life at 2 p.m., Dec. 14, (Tuesday), at the First Presbyterian Church at 521 Lakeside Ave. in Coeur d’Alene. English Funeral Chapel, Coeur d’Alene has been entrusted with Lynn’s care and services. Please sign Lynn’s guest registry and view her online memorial at englishfuneralchapel.com.