Modena "Dena"

Ann Whorton

Modena Ann Whorton, known as Dena to her family and friends, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026, in Sweetwater, Texas. She was 75 years old and a lifelong resident of Nolan County, residing in the Champion and Roscoe communities.

Dena was born on September 30, 1950, in Wasco, California, to the late Melvin Lewis Rankin and Printy Cleo (Martin) Rankin. She graduated from Highland High School and married the love of her life, Randy Whorton, on August 15, 1970. Together they shared 51 years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, family, and service.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, Dena dedicated her life to caring for others. She was loving, hardworking, and fiercely protective and supportive her family and friends, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering loyalty touched countless lives.

While raising her family, Dena pursued her passion for education at Hardin-Simmons University, graduating summa cum laude on December 20, 1990, with a Bachelor of Education specializing in Early Childhood Development. She taught at Hermleigh ISD before continuing her career at Roscoe ISD, where she retired after years of inspiring and encouraging young minds. She loved learning and found great joy in sharing knowledge with others.

Dena is survived by her son, Josh Whorton of Roscoe; daughter, Bonnie Klauzer and son-in-law Jason Klauzer; grandchildren Alyson Whorton-Jones, Samuel Jones, David Whorton, and Wyatt Whorton; brother Gene Rankin of Snyder; and numerous nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her husband, Randall Whorton, on November 27, 2021; her son, Billy Lee Whorton, on September 1, 2025; and her sister-in-law, Carloyn Rankin, on November 8, 2025.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Roscoe Cemetery with Erik Mendoza, Pastor of First Baptist Church in Roscoe, officiating.  Interment will follow under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home of Sweetwater.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Roscoe, 401 Main Street, Roscoe, Texas 79545, or to a charity of one's choice.

Arrangements are entrusted to McCoy Funeral Home, Sweetwater, Texas. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mccoyfh.com.