Deborah Louise Wilkins "Debbie" King

Debbie King passed away peacefully at her home in Homosassa, Florida, on April 6, 2025. Born in Spokane, Washington, Debbie's life was marked by a deep zest for adventure, a generous heart, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

Debbie was born on March 15, 1951, in Spokane, Washington. In 1972, she moved to Homosassa, Florida, after spending time in Sag Harbor, Long Island, New York. Her journey through life was enriched by diverse experiences and the people she met along the way.

Debbie's professional life was characterized by significant accomplishments and service across several fields. She dedicated many years to helping others through her work at the Key Training Center for persons with disabilities in Crystal River, Florida. In the security and public safety arenas, Debbie served as a supervisor in the security industry at the Florida Power Nuclear Plant and rose to the rank of Lieutenant in the Florida Department of Corrections. In her later years, she became a respected health physicist in the nuclear power industry, contributing her expertise to ensuring safety in this challenging field.

Her career reflected her resilience and ability to thrive even amid personal challenges, including severe health setbacks over the last eighteen months of her life. During this period, Debbie fought against a severe flesh-eating virus contracted from the Gulf of Mexico that ultimately led to the loss of her leg. She also endured the complications of COPD with remarkable courage until God eased her suffering.

Debbie is predeceased by her father, Dale Senior; her mother, Mary Louise; and her brother, Dale Junior. She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 54 years, James King, Senior, and her sons, James King, Junior and Jason King (Emily) of Homosassa. She is also survived by her five cherished grandchildren – Kade, Kerrigan, Kason, Kensey, and Kirah King – all of Homosassa, and by her brothers Danny (Karla) Wilkins of Merritt Island, Florida, Henry "Hootie" (Brooke) Wilkins of Virginia, and David (Brenda) Wilkins of Virginia. Also, several nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

Debbie's commitment to service extended into her community involvement. A past member of the Pilots Club in Crystal River and a current member of the Lions Club in Homosassa, her legacy of service continues to inspire all who knew her. In memory of Debbie, the family requests that donations be made to the Lions Club in lieu of flowers. They also express deep appreciation to Dwight Hooper, owner of Hooper Funeral Homes, for personally overseeing her cremation.