Theretta was born on December 14, 1952, in Galveston, Texas. She attended Galveston public schools and was a 1971 graduate of Ball High School. A longtime resident of Galveston, before moving to Texas City, she also was member of St John Baptist Church in Galveston.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Gladys Bonner; grandmothers, Catherine Hawkins and Arancie Gayden, and daughter, Renecia Scott.

She leaves with precious memories, her daughter, Tashaka Althea Gayden of Terrell, Texas; grandchildren, Cheretta Smith, Isaiah and Albert Hatter, TyReek, TyRell and Ja’Mari Gayden; great-grandson, Brayden Smith; father, Willie Gayden and wife Bessie; sister, Cheryl Gayden Hicks (Kenneth); brother, Tony Gayden (Lisa); uncle, Richard Gayden and Spencer Green; aunt, Corrine Harris; cousin/sister, Marilyn Dickerson; longtime friends, Cynthia Maddox and Lurnell Howard; host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation will held on Friday, February 19, 2010, 9-10:30 AM, with celebration service at 11:00 AM at St John Baptist Church (2917 Sealy) with Pastor Louis Simpson, Jr. officiating.