Debbie J. Smith

Debra J. Smith passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the age of 58.
She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 20 years, Erik Smith; her sister, Marilynne Harrison; her mother-in-law, Sally Smith; her cherished Keeshonds-Dealer, Kenzi, and Kati; and a wide circle of extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hirom and Sharon Stacey; her uncle, David Busker; her father-in-law, Richard Smith; and her beloved Keeshonds-Koti, Kaci, Neesha, and Kirbi-who brought her endless love and companionship.
Debbie and Erik shared 23 wonderful years together. They both married their best friend and built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. They made their home in Joliet, Illinois, where Debbie commuted daily to Chicago for work. In 2005, they purchased property in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, and in 2011, they built their dream home-working hand in hand and doing as much of the labor themselves as possible. Many weekends were spent "up North," tackling projects, boating, or simply enjoying time together curled up in front of the fireplace on cold winter days. For Debbie and Erik, being together was what mattered most. Debbie worked as a legal secretary for over 30 years. In her early 50s, she transitioned into real estate, earning her license and finding joy in helping others discover their dream homes.
Debbie was known for her warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit. She had a gift for making people feel seen and heard, and her compassion extended to everyone she met. Her laughter was infectious, her hugs were healing, and her presence brought comfort and calm. She was the kind of person who remembered birthdays, sent handwritten notes, and always made time for those in need. Her love was quiet but powerful-expressed through acts of service, thoughtful gestures, and unwavering loyalty.
A lifelong animal lover, Debbie had a special affection for dogs-especially Keeshonds. After adopting her first in 1994, she never had another breed. Her passion led her to become deeply involved with Marta's Legacy, a rescue organization dedicated to Keeshonds. As president from 2020 onward, she helped more than 80 dogs find better lives. Even after her diagnosis of stage II pancreatic cancer in late 2020, Debbie remained committed to the cause, spending countless hours helping dogs in need.
Debbie faced her illness with remarkable courage, grace, and positivity. She never gave up, becoming an inspiration to everyone who knew her. She lived each day with gratitude, finding joy in small moments and strength in the love that surrounded her.
One of her most cherished memories was a final trip she and Erik took together with their dogs-Dealer, Kenzi, Kati, and Kirbi-traveling out east and stopping along the way to visit many dear friends. That journey, filled with laughter, companionship, and love, perfectly reflected the way Debbie lived-embracing every opportunity to connect, give, and savor life's beauty.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: • Seena Magowitz Foundation, supporting pancreatic cancer research - www.seenamagowitzfoundation.org • Marta's Legacy, supporting Keeshond rescue and care - PayPal: martaslegacy@gmail.com or mail to Erik Smith, 618 Cowles Avenue, Joliet, IL 60435
Debbie will be remembered for her strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she loved-both human and canine. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, and her loving nature will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Memorial visitation will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 1:00 p.m. at the Carlson Holmquist Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rosad, Joliet. For information, visit www.chsfuneral.com or call 815-744-0022. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Debbie, please visit our floral store.