Debra “Debbie” Jean Dietz Walker, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 5, 2025, at Paris Regional Medical Center. She was 71 years old.
Born on February 16, 1953, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to George Adam Dietz and Norma Jean Dietz, Debbie grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and kindness that would define her life. On September 26, 1969, she married the love of her life, Johnny Wade Walker, and together they built 55 years of cherished memories, love, and devotion.
Debbie was a woman of boundless warmth, selflessness, and unwavering faith. She dedicated her life to caring for those she loved, whether as a devoted wife, a nurturing mother and grandmother, or a compassionate nurse. Her kindness knew no limits, and her presence filled every room with light.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers; father-in-law, John R. Walker; mother-in-law, Margie E. Walker; brother-in-law, David Kennedy; and sister-in-law, Denette Walker.
Debbie is survived by her adoring husband, Johnny; her loving children, Bobbi Lynette Loftin and husband John of Paris, Lori Beth Walker, and Adam Wade Walker of Blossom. She also leaves behind her treasured grandchildren, Jacee Walker, Ember Walker, Reylin Walker, and Kinlee Walker of Blossom; Ty Smith and wife Cory, along with their sons, Riggin and Tucker; Jesse Smith and wife Cyndi, and their son Lariat, all of Oklahoma; Scarlett Walker of San Antonio; and Asher “Percy” Wade Walker of Bealls.
She is also survived by her brothers, George Siedel, Ike Dietz, and Carl Dietz, all of Pennsylvania, along with her extended family: brother-in-law Phillip Walker and his wife, Delphia; sister-in-law Donna Walker Kennedy and Richard Ausmus; and brothers-in-law Paul Walker and Shane Walker with his wife, Amy.
Debbie had a heart as sweet as the desserts she baked. She once owned Sugar and Spice Bake Shop, where she delighted many with her delicious treats. Later in life, she traded her apron for scrubs, earning her license as a vocational nurse from Paris Junior College. No matter the role, whether as a baker, a nurse, or the heart of her family, Debbie poured her love into everything she did. She had an incredible gift for making people feel special, for lifting spirits with her warm smile, and for offering comfort to those in need.
A devoted woman of faith, Debbie loved Jesus Christ with all her heart and remained steadfast in her love for our Creator to the very end. She lived her life with kindness, grace, and a deep love for her family, always reflecting the light of Christ in all she did. She was a guiding presence to those who knew her, and the world was truly a better place because of her. Her legacy of love, faith, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9th at Bright-Holland Funeral Home with Rev. James Singleton officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfunerlahome.com
