Deborah Lilly Anderson-Gilliam

Deborah Lilly Anderson Gilliam September 9, 1959 – March 20, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Deborah Lilly Anderson Gilliam, who left this world on March 20, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. Born on September 9, 1959, in Rupert, Idaho, Deborah lived a life full of love, laughter, and resilience. Debbie was known for her fun-loving spirit, quick wit, and ability to bring joy to any gathering. She was truly the life of the party, with an infectious laugh and a warm, welcoming presence. Debbie had a giving heart and always had an open door for anyone who needed it. Sitting by the water, in the sunshine, with good company was her favorite place to be. She faced many challenges in life, including undergoing a liver transplant, surviving cancer, and many other tragedies along the way. Yet she met each obstacle with courage and determination.

Debbie’s journey took her to many different places throughout her life, where she met incredible people and made lasting memories. Debbie received a volleyball scholarship to East Texas A&M University, graduated from New Mexico Junior College with a degree in accounting, and continued her education at UTPB to gain status as a paralegal. As a woman with many talents, she took on each job with determination, skill, and fearless attitude. From getting her CDL to obtaining her Realtor’s License in California, she proved that she could do anything she set her mind to. In honor of her strength, adventurous spirit, and enduring love, we look forward to celebrating her life and memories with friends and family.

She is survived by her beloved husband, James (JW) Gilliam, her cherished children Benjamin Wade James, Reyne James, Richelle Laskowski, and her adored grandchildren Krissy Hickey, Kaly Hickey, Carson Jackson, Christian Copeland, Cecilia Laskowski, Connor Laskowski, and Cora Lilly Laskowski, who all brought immense joy and pride to her life. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Tony & Delores Haboush, who instilled in her a deep love for family and resilience in the face of hardship. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Rory Anderson, Ronnie Anderson, Michael King, and a granddaughter Rey’Anna Jackson, whose precious memories she carried in her heart. She leaves behind her loving siblings, Lorrie Crowe, Karen Davidson, Nick King, Angela Burrough, and Lisa Anderson, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom will miss her dearly.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday April 5th at the First Baptist Church, 519 West 4th Street, Denver City, TX. The immediate family will gather for lunch at 12:00 pm to share stories, laughter, and memories, just as Debbie would have wanted. The service will be held at 1 pm followed by a graveside burial. Debbie’s legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.