Tisha "TaTa" Derden

Obituary for Tisha Jean Derden May 13, 1975 – February 21, 2026 Tisha Jean Derden, lovingly known as “Mom” and “TaTa,” was born on May 13, 1975, and was called home to the Lord on Saturday, February 21, 2026, surrounded by the family she loved so deeply. Tisha was the heart of her family — strong, spirited, and full of life. She loved the outdoors and felt most at peace with a fishing pole in her hand, deer hunting, or enjoying family dove hunting trips. She had a gift for growing things, whether it was in her garden or in the lives of those around her. She took pride in canning the produce she grew and was known for cooking delicious homemade meals that brought everyone to the table. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life — slower days at home with her grandchildren, sitting on the porch with a glass of half-and-half tea, and spending time with those she loved most. She never turned down a trip to the casino, a shopping outing (especially for shoes), or the chance to add more denim and cheetah print to her wardrobe. Tisha loved to laugh, dance, cut up on the dance floor, sing karaoke, and enjoy a cold beer or a Bloody Mary with friends and family. Tisha worked in a variety of clerical positions throughout her life, including with Walker County Water Special Utility District and TDCJ. She also proudly held her CDL license and could drive anything from a dump truck to a cow truck — though she always preferred a Peterbilt. She was hardworking, capable, and never afraid to take on a challenge. Above all else, Tisha loved her family fiercely. She was married to her devoted husband, Joe Bill, for 31 years, loving him unconditionally through every season of life. She did her best to be present for her grandchildren’s school activities and cherished every moment spent with them. She loved all of her grandchildren deeply — both by blood and those who became hers by heart. She is survived by her husband, Joe Bill; her mother, Ronda Ledbetter and husband Bill; her daughters, Larra Ketkoski (Jeffery), Lacey Burzynski, and Lindsey Woods (Jim); and her beloved grandchildren Avery, Jozie, Jett, Kodi Jo, and Emorie, with one precious grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her sister, Tonya Griffin (James), and their children Nadia (Tristan), Jack, and Sterling. Her step-siblings Billy Ledbetter (Melissa) and “CJ” Concepcion (Ringo), and mother-in-law Bertha Derden. Tisha was preceded in death by her grandparents, Norman “Bully” and Norma Jean Ready, and her father-in-law, Bill Derden. Pallbearers will be her family friends Gus Gustafson, Royce Taylor, Michol “Guinea” Goodrum, Dave Crawford and “Gabby” Monjaras. Honorary pallbearers are her Son-in-laws Jeffery Ketkoski & Jim Woods, cousin Robert “Bubba” McCarty, and John “Scooter” Keisler. Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing she is now free from pain and resting in the arms of her Savior. Her legacy of love, strength, laughter, and loyalty will live on in all who knew and loved her. A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM and a funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Huntsville. Burial will follow at Farris Cemetery.

Tisha "TaTa" Derden

May 13, 1975 - February 21, 2026