Debbie Marie Smith

Debbie Marie (Knott) Smith, known affectionately to all as Debbie, embarked on her final adventure on September 30, 2025, in Odessa, TX, after a life rich with laughter, love, and the kind of stories that could fill a book-or at least a pretty engaging pamphlet. Born on August 17, 1972, to the late Willie Knott Jr and Dorothy Mae (Day) Knott, in the sunny town of Sonora, TX, Debbie's early years were a hint of the zest and zeal she would carry throughout her 53 years.

Debbie was the kind of person who could light up a room with her infectious smile and a laugh that could pierce through the gloomiest of days. She spent a few years as a security guard, where she was known for her uncanny ability to defuse tense situations with her humor and warmth. Her colleagues often joked that she could make even the most suspicious characters at the gate hand over their contraband with nothing but a quip and a grin.

Education for Debbie was a chapter closed with her high school graduation, but she never stopped learning the art of joy and the science of compassion. She was a wild one, indeed, with a spirit that refused to be tamed and a heart that refused to be selfish. Debbie loved fiercely, and when she loved you, you knew you had an ally for life.

Her long-time partner, Shawn King, can attest to her boundless energy and deep capacity for love. Together, they navigated the rollercoaster of life, with Debbie often throwing her hands up and enjoying the ride, while Shawn held on tight. Her daughter, Serena Wright, was the apple of her eye, and Debbie's legacy continues through her two adoring grandchildren, Violet Casey and Oliver Garrett, who were the recipients of her endless stories and bear hugs.

Debbie's siblings were a ragtag crew of characters who each held a special place in her expansive heart. Brothers Willie Knott Jr., Roger (Sherry) Knott, and Wayne Knott will miss their sister's larger-than-life presence, as will her sister Jodi Young, also her sister-in-law Cathy Beggs. She was preceded in death by both parents, her brother Jimmy Brewer, who no doubt welcomed her with open arms and a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

Her love for Unicorns was only matched by her passion for her three chihuahuas, who were her loyal companions and the perfect audience for her comedic timing. Debbie's idea of a good time was firing up the grill for a bar-b-q and reveling in the chaos of a family gathering, where her laughter was the soundtrack to every event.

To say Debbie was loving, selfless, and generous is an understatement. She was the person who not only gave you the shirt off her back but would also throw in a witty remark to make sure you left with a smile. She believed in second chances, third chances, and however many it took because in her eyes, everyone deserved the opportunity to shine.

As we bid farewell to Debbie, let's not mourn the sunset but instead celebrate the glorious day that was her life. Her stories, her laughter, and her unyielding spirit will continue to echo in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Debbie Marie (Knott) Smith may have left the stage, but the encore of her influence will play on forever. Keep the bar-b-q hot, Debbie; we'll bring the stories when we meet again

There are no services scheduled at this time. Arrangements are entrusted to Acres West Funeral Chapel and condolences may be sent online acreswestfuneral.com