Dennis Guidry

Dennis Darnell Guidry, affectionately known as “Big D” by family and close friends, was born on March 2, 1956, at Mercy Hospital in Benton Harbor, Michigan, to the late Deacon Ezekiel Jr. and Icie Mae (Harris) Guidry. On October 5, 2024, at approximately 6:00 a.m., Dennis transitioned from labor to rest due to cardiac arrest.

Dennis accepted Christ at an early age, becoming a member of New Bethel Baptist Church in Benton Harbor under the leadership of Reverend Milton H. Raspberry.  He attended BTU & Sunday school, and was a member of the choir and Junior Usher Board.  In later years, he found fellowship at Spirit of Victory Church in Flint, Michigan, and Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Benton Harbor.  However, he maintained his membership at New Bethel Baptist Church, under the leadership of  Reverend Maurice McAfee, Pastor.

Education and Service to Community

Dennis received his education in the Benton Harbor Area Schools and further honed his talents at the Skill Center, where he excelled in art, drawing, and automotive services. Known for his creativity, Dennis used his hands and heart to help others.  In August 2024, Dennis volunteered with his 1974 high school classmates, working on the 5K Legacy Walk/Run to raise funds for scholarships benefiting Benton Harbor High School students. Dennis wanted to uplift the community and help the next generation have opportunities to succeed.

A Man of Many Talents

Dennis's first job was at Model Cities, painting fences and picking up trash.  He worked as a busboy at Holmsted Restaurant.  He was a carpenter/painter and worked on homes in Benton Harbor,  Detroit, and Flint. Known for his many hobbies, Dennis took special pride in his cooking, often referring to himself as the “King of Barbecue.” Whether it was grilling for family gatherings, Dennis’s meals were always filled with flavor and love.   He had a passion for cleaning, attending concerts, dancing (bopping), shopping, watching old westerns, and skating at G&W and Sister Lakes skating rinks.  Known for his sharp sense of style, Dennis was always dressed to impress. He had more suits than Steve Harvey, and he could iron a serious crease in his jeans.  He also embraced the role of “Den Den,” the unofficial news reporter for the family.  Family and friends would often say, “If you want to know anything, just ask Den Den.”

A Life of Care and Compassion

Dennis spent many years working as a caretaker in the Flint area, providing comfort and companionship to his clients. After the passing of his last client, Dennis returned to Benton Harbor to assist in caring for his beloved mother, Icie Mae. His final days with her were especially meaningful, marked by joy and cherished moments, including a visit to Devries Orchard in St. Joseph, Michigan, just days before his passing.

Dennis Guidry was a man whose life was woven into the hearts of many through love, friendship, and fatherly guidance. Dennis was briefly married to Cheryl Hamby of Jackson, Michigan. However, his deepest connections blossomed beyond traditional family lines. He became an extended member of the Horace Young Sr. family, forming an enduring friendship with Debra Young. With time, Dennis took on the role of a father figure to Debra’s daughter, Tanesha, building a bond of trust and affection.

His relationship with Lorraine Young brought into the world their beloved daughter, Patches Young-Richardson. Dennis and Patches shared a vibrant daddy-daughter relationship filled with love, joy, and even spirited disagreements, where both often said the same thing—just at different volumes. Their connection was unbreakable.

Dennis extended his fatherly love to the children of LaKeia Young: Damerian, Amira, Amari, Casey, and Aubryelle.  Tanesha’s children:  CarLesia Young and Kylen Jenkins and grandchild, Parker Elise’ whose lives were constant and he cherished them deeply.

Cherished Memories and Legacy

Dennis is survived by his mother, Icie Mae Guidry; his sisters, Iris D. Guidry and Cassandra Guidry-Benion (Edward); and his brothers, Garyl L. Guidry (Katrina) and Michael L. Guidry (Makesha).  Dennis leaves behind a legacy of love through his daughter, Patches Young Richardson (Antonio), and grandchildren: Cortez, Antonio III, and Nova. He was immensely proud to be a great-grandfather to Kasyon. His memory will also be cherished by numerous extended family members and close friends.  Dennis will be lovingly remembered by special friends, including Brian Haywood, Indianapolis, Indiana;  Ollie Horn of Memphis, Tennessee; Michael Kelly; Kenny Threlkeld and the entire Threlkeld family; Christopher Young; and Aaron Mitchell.  His community, along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, will forever cherish the impact he made in their lives.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Ezekiel Guidry Jr.;  brothers, Kirk Anthony and Keith Ricardo Guidry;  sister, Sherri Antoinette Guidry-Couliably, on October 3, 2024;  paternal grandparents, Fannie and Ezekiel Guidry, Sr;  maternal grandparents, Pearline and Johnnie Harris.

“Don’t cry for me, don’t shed a tear.  The time I’ve shared with you will always be. And when I’m gone, Please carry on, Don’t cry for me.”

Dennis’ family and friends will continue to honor his legacy by carrying forward his compassion and generosity. Though he is no longer with us in body, the memories, lessons, and love he shared will remain in our hearts forever.

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