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Debra L. Willis

1958 - 2024

Debra L. Willis obituary, 1958-2024, Elma, NY

BORN

1958

DIED

2024

Debra Willis Obituary

Willis, Debra Debra Lee Willis (nee Smith), a cherished retired teacher, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, surrounded by family. Born on December 10, 1958, to the late John and Carole Smith, she was the devoted wife of Dennis Willis for 47 years and a steadfast support to her children, Kristin (Dominic) and Sean (Victoria). Debra found immense joy as a grandmother to Zachary (Chloe), Taylor (Jade), Madelyn, Dominic Jr., Aliyah, Krystiana, and Micah, and loved many other bonus kids and grandkids as her own.

Debra was a beloved daughter-in-law to Gertrude (late Edward) Willis and a loving sister to Laura (Parker), Barbara (Jeff), Cara (Tony), and Lisa (late Joseph), along with sisters-in-law Dianne (Rick) and Dawn (Paul). She is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

An active member of Revive Wesleyan Church for over 30 years, Debra shared her faith and formed lasting connections worldwide. In addition to her teaching career at Blasdell Elementary, she enjoyed traveling on mission trips and exploring new places with her husband on their motorcycle. A devoted follower of the Lord, she spread joy and compassion, always pausing to pray for family, friends, and even strangers.

Debra will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched. A celebration of her life will be held at Revive Wesleyan Church, 4999 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg (DOOR 6&7). Visitation begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 19, 2024, followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. There will be a time of fellowship afterward for sharing memories of Debra.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Debra's name to one of her favorite charities: https://emertfamily.org/

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Buffalo News from Oct. 15 to Oct. 14, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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Deborah Bartus

October 20, 2024

So sorry I was unable to attend Debra's service, but I wanted to say what a good friend Debra was to me when I first joined Revive Wesleyan just about 30 years ago. She was always outgoing and willing to talk and pray. She loved the Lord and showed His blessings in living her life through a tough medical diagnosis. I know that she was met at Heaven's Gate by my husband Don and welcomed into a wonderful afterlife. "Be still and know" - Debra you will be so missed! Condolences to your family.

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Memorial Events
for Debra Willis

Oct

19

Visitation

9:30 a.m.

Revive Wesleyan Church

4999 McKinley Parkway (DOOR 6&7), Hamburg, NY

Oct

19

Service

11:00 a.m.

Revive Wesleyan Church

4999 McKinley Parkway (DOOR 6&7), Hamburg, NY

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