Vicky Jo Dietzman, “Jody,” of Justin, Texas, passed away on March 16, 2026, at the age of 68.

Jody was born on November 1, 1957, at 12:49 p.m. in Denton, Texas, at Flow Memorial Hospital, to the late Charles Henry “Buddy” Dietzman and Janet Elaine Ingram Dietzman.

She attended grade school in Justin, Texas, and later graduated from Texas A&M University–Commerce with a Bachelor of Science in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, with an emphasis in general studies and a passion for child development. Jody retired after 21 years of dedicated service in early childhood development and special needs education. Throughout her life, she also worked for Coca‑Cola, owned and operated a video store, and maintained her beautician’s license.

Jody had a rare gift for kindling curiosity and fostering a deep appreciation for learning in all who knew her—whether as a mom or in the classroom. She credited this gift to her family and to Mrs. Pennington, Mrs. Love, and Mrs. Kykendall. She taught us that the world is full of marvels waiting to be explored, with an adventure in store if you simply use your imagination. Her joy and thirst for knowledge were at the root of every conversation. She had an imagination that effortlessly transformed ordinary things into something meaningful. Her heart was the size of Texas, and she loved the simple things in life - the kind of moments most people rush past. You could see her love for life’s moments reflected in the items she collected over the years. She loved everyone and lived out Hebrews 10:24–25, loving people in a way that was bold, generous, and unapologetic. You never had to wonder where you stood with her, and few ever left feeling unseen.

From a young age, Jody was creative and passionate about art, including stained glass, pyrography, painting, black‑and‑white artwork, and watercolor. She was deeply invested in homeopathic and holistic medicine, practicing and sharing her knowledge throughout her life. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren, which often included Sonic or Whataburger runs, camping and fishing, attending sporting events and concerts, and leaving notes all over the house to remind them of her rules. She loved picking up a map and taking the least populated route, always eager to explore someplace new. At times, it felt as though she was auditioning to be a replacement for Texas Country Reporter when it came to documenting her love of Texas backroads and historical sites.

She loved The Wizard of Oz; The Velveteen Rabbit; all animals - especially horses, dogs, cats, butterflies, and birds; reading, gardening, teaching school, music, ROCKS, historical tales and folklore, mystical possibilities, and countless other ways to feed her imagination. Her image of what made a good man was shaped by her father, grandpas & uncles with the character Hoss Cartwright being the image she adored. She was quick to let you know if your or someone’s traits were moving toward - or away from - their standard. She had a voice that carried through daily life - sometimes a gift and sometimes a challenge - but always one that left a lasting impression. In her words, she could whisper and older people could clearly hear what she said from 10’ away.

Jody is survived by her children: Mandy and her husband, Brett Buckingham; Wade and his wife, Candice Dietzman; Rob and his wife, Carla McCarty; and Ryan Kyla and her husband, Wes Branaman. She was a proud grandmother to Taylor, Rhealynn, Danielle, and Torry Buckingham; Kason, Korra, and Kohen Dietzman; Asa and Eli McCarty; and Brenna Elaine Branaman.

She is also survived by her aunt, Lynda Hall; uncles James Dietzmann, Carl Gierisch, and David Ingram; and numerous cousins and dear friends around the world—her “pen pals”—as well as in‑laws, outlaws, and the Justin Senior Group.

Jody is now sitting on the Lord’s porch, enjoying a glass of sweet tea with Jesus, reunited with her dad, Buddy Dietzman; her mother, Janet Elaine Dietzman; her brother, Ryan Wade Dietzman; and many beloved family members she had missed throughout the years. We are certain she is already discussing her list of questions for God.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, May 24, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at Denton County Cowboy Church, located at 400 Robinson Road, Ponder, Texas 76259.

Donations may be made to Apollo Support and Rescue in honor of Jody Dietzman.