Deborah Kathleen Matthys

Deborah Kathleen Matthys, 72, of Lafayette, Indiana died on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at IU Arnett Hospital.
Debbie was born on April 8, 1953 to William and Betty (Smith) Matthys in Lafayette. She was a graduate of Southwestern High School.
Debbie loved to laugh, truly the life of any gathering. She loved racing and traveling, often finding new racetracks to visit or new restaurants to try. She was always willing to go on a road trip and, before her health suffered, was almost always the driver. Deb loved to sing in the car, always the star of the show. She enjoyed playing games of all kinds and subsequently taught them to the children in her life. She was great at making crafts and often did that as a business. She was an avid reader and could frequently be found tearing through novels. Most of all, Debbie loved her family and friends and was a fantastic sister and aunt. She loved spending time with children and had endless patience for them. One of her greatest joys was in watching her nephew, Luke, grow and in helping to raise him with her sisters.
Debbie is survived by 5 sisters and 1 brother: Sandra Matthys, Cynthia Matthys, Amanda (Dan) Mobley, all of Lafayette; Emily (Rick) Matthys Bennett of Oxford; Christina (TL) Matthys of Dayton; William Matthys of New Richmond. She is survived by nephews and nieces: Luke (Tina) Matthys, Sam (Amber) Bennett, Gavin Oldham, Zeke Bennett, Ava (Jack) Dowell, Zed Bennett, Heath Bray, and Natalia Bray. She is also survived by great nieces and nephews: among them, Cora and Dawson Matthys. The family would also like to acknowledge her many lifelong friendships, particularly Wanda Philpott.
Debbie was never afraid and faced every new challenge with strength and humor. She would think of something to laugh about, regardless of the situation. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents.
The memorial service will be held on November 6, 2025 at Soller Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. with visitation beginning at 5 pm and the memorial service following at 6 pm. Memorial donations may be made to Natalie's Second Chance Shelter 10 S 16th St Lafayette, IN 47905.