Deborah Lynn Grantham

Deborah Lynn Grantham, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Born on December 29, 1953, in Peoria, Illinois, Debbie's life was a reflection of love, compassion, and resilience. Her heart was devoted to her family, her calling to care for others, and the kindness she shared so freely with everyone who knew her.

From a young age, Debbie embraced motherhood with grace and strength, finding her greatest joy in raising her family. Over the years, she worked many jobs - in retail, with the city, and in nursing - but her most cherished role was always being a mother. Driven by her passion for helping others, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a true testament to her dedication and perseverance. For many years, she cared for patients and families at Good Hope Hospital, where she touched countless lives with her gentle hands, her warm heart, and her unwavering compassion.

On December 27, 1986, Debbie married the love of her life, Doug. Together, they built a home filled with devotion, laughter, and enduring love. Their life together was a beautiful example of commitment and partnership, and their bond will forever remain an inspiration to their family.

Debbie was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Nettie and Charlie Krigbaum; her grandparents, Evelyn and William Krigbaum; her father, Edward Cassidy; her stepfather, Reuben James; her siblings, James Cassidy, Edward Cassidy, William "Bill" Charles Cassidy, and Dawn Suzette Shelton; and her son, Christopher Speerli.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Howard "Doug" Grantham; her loving mother, Janet James; her sister-in-law, Michelle Marvin; her brother, Brett A. Shelton, and his wife, Laurie; her brother, Shane Cassidy; and her children, Carrie Wallum and her husband, Brian; Tanya Ivey and her husband, Kenneth; Howard "Doug" Grantham Jr. and his wife, Jennifer; and Ricky Grantham and his wife, Peggy. She is also survived by numerous half- and step-siblings, who held a special place in her heart.

Debbie was the proud grandmother of Justin Grantham, Ricky Grantham Jr., Bobbie Grantham, Billie Grantham, Danny Grantham, Briana (Russ) Lockamy, Kelsey (CJ) Faulkner, Jordan (Camdon) Mooring, Sidney (Alaina) Ivey, Dylan (Randie) Ivey, Cooper Ivey, Joshua (Makayla) Speerli, and Kristen (Josh) Speerli-Bies. She was also a cherished great-grandmother to twelve great-grandchildren who brought endless joy and light to her life.

For Debbie, family was her greatest treasure, and her heart was always fullest when surrounded by those she loved. She will be remembered for her warmth, her unshakable strength, and her unwavering love through both life's blessings and its challenges. Her presence was truly a gift, and her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and lives of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

While her family grieves her loss, they find comfort in knowing she is reunited with those who went before her and now rests in eternal peace. Debbie's love, laughter, and compassion will forever remain a part of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.