Dede was born in Olean, NY on January 22, 1953, to George and Irma (Tatlow) Reitz. Dede was a graduate of Ten Broeck Academy in Franklinville, NY and became a licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years and owned her own hair salon (Dede's Styling Shop). Afterwards, she became a CDL-A over the road semi-truck driver for Jaylor Trucking and frequently drove to Idaho and California along with many other destinations. In later years, Dede worked for the Friendship Central School District and was known to all as "Grandma De."

Dede was a devoted mother and grandmother and cherished her time with her family. She loved horses and rode and competed in her younger years. All her life, Dede was passionate about music and loved to dance. Elvis was her favorite, and she could outdance anyone with her moves doing the jitterbug. Dede loved to read and listen to books that were not meant for little ears Dede liked to throw parties. She was determined to feed everyone well, and she cooked like she was feeding an army. Her macaroni and potato salad were requested at every event, and her homemade apple and pumpkin pies were extremely popular. Nobody could make a crust like her!

Dede is survived by her children, Matthew Cobado and Marcia Crawford (Jeremy): grandchildren, Tomera Cobado, Thomas Cobado, Dakotah Cobado. Troy Crawford, and Kole Crawford: siblings, Rhonda (Donny) Kurdziel, George Conley (Linda) Reitz, Maria Hollamby, and Sehara (David) Perry. She is also survived by her first husband, Hale Cobado, an uncle and two aunts, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Dede was preceded in death by her parents, George and Irma Reitz and her second husband, Arthur Tyler III.

A Memorial Service for Dede will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 12:00-12:30pm at the United Church of Friendship immediately following Sunday Worship at 11:00 A.M. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Cuba VFW at 2:00 pm. Make sure you wear your dancing shoes!

In lieu of flowers, Dede requested donations to American Diabetes Association, Alzheimer's Association, or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements are under direction of the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., Cuba.