Debbie Lynn Snipes

Debbie "Birdie" Lynn Snipes, age 65, of Roland, Arkansas, passed away on December 4th, 2025. She was born on December 29th, 1959, in Conway, Arkansas, to the late Sam and Esther (Powell) Byrd.

Debbie was a devoted Christian, who could always be seen at church until she no longer could attend due to her health. She loved to travel, and was able to visit all over the country throughout her life. Debbie was known for her love and kindness to all who knew her. No matter who showed up on her doorstep, whether it be a person or an animal, she would quickly take them in as her own. Although she had no children, she quickly became "mom" to many. Her kindness followed her into her career as an LPN in geriatric nursing. She graduated from nursing school in 1980, and went on to serve her community until her retirement in 2012.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 40+ years, Wesley Snipes; and her two brothers, Clement Byrd and George Byrd.

Those left to cherish her memory are her sister, Lura O'Donnell of Roland; her brothers, James (Marshella) Byrd of Russellville, and Ronnie (Donna) Byrd of Mabelvale; her goddaughter, Shay Crawford of Roland; her "sister-cousin" Jeanette (Les) Renfro Ablondi of Arkadelphia; and her best friend, lovingly called "sister-friend", Melinda Smithey of Louisiana.

She will be dearly missed by her numerous family members and countless friends.

A Celebration of Life for Mrs. Snipes will be planned at a future date at Kennerly Cemetery in Roland, Arkansas.

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