Deborah Heckmann

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deborah (Debbie) Kay Heckmann, who was called home to heaven by the Lord on March 27, 2025. Born on August 26, 1952 in Arlington, TX, Debbie lived a life full of love, kindness, and dedication to her family and friends. She was an avid animal lover, donating her time and resources in support of non-kill animal shelters such as Operation Kindness. Debbie was a dedicated mother and wife who was an amazing cook, loved the beach and music, and was fascinated by Egyptology. She had an uncanny ability to reach out to people during difficult moments in their life, providing encouragement through handwritten cards and personal engagements. The size of her heart was enormous as she sought to love those around her with reckless abandon, always striving to make people feel welcomed.



Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, "Buddy" Thurbert Stewart and Zelta "James" Stewart.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John Douglas, who stood by her side through all of life's joys and challenges. She was a devoted mother to her son, Jonathan, and his wife, Julie, and a cherished grandmother to their two daughters, Emma (who Debbie affectionately called "Memma") and Lucy. Debbie's love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness. She was never hesitant to spoil her grandchildren and act 'silly' for their amusement. They loved spending time with their "Mamaw." Debbie's warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit and immense heart touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She will be remembered for her quick wit, ability to make everyone feel welcome, and her remarkable sense of charity and kindness. Her legacy of love and compassion will continue to inspire those who knew her as her memory lives on with her family and friends.



A memorial service will be held to celebrate Debbie's life, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and recount stories of the wonderful moments they shared with her. A Committal Service will be held at St. Mark's the Evangelist Church in Plano, TX on Friday, April 25th at 1:30 PM. Debbie's presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Debbie was a devout Catholic who wholeheartedly believed in the miracle of the Gospel and Jesus Christ. While we know that our time with her on this side of Heaven has come to an end, we are confident in the redeeming grace of Jesus Christ who ensures we will see her again. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is a gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9).



In lieu of flowers or gifts, we request that donations be made to Operation Kindness (Operation Kindness) in Debbie's name, as a tribute to her generous, caring and loving nature.