Deborah Thomas Somero

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Deborah Thomas Somero, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, colleague, and friend who departed this life on September 1, 2025 at the age of 77.
Born in Joplin, Missouri, to Rose and Clarence Thomas, Deborah was a bright light in the lives of everyone who knew her. She attended Missouri Valley College and later the University of Texas at Dallas, where she cultivated her love for learning.
Deborah was the devoted wife of Wayne Somero for 56 years, sharing a life filled with love, adventure, and countless cherished memories. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Ben Somero and Beth (Turner) Somero, who were the pride and joy of her life. She was also a loving grandmother to her four grandchildren: Nick, Bailey, Alyssa, William, and a proud great-grandmother to her precious great-grandson, Gunnar.
Deborah started working at Richland College in July 1979 in the Admissions Office. She retired as Associate Dean of Student Services in August 2016. During her tenure at Richland College she held positions of Director of Testing, Assistant to the Vice President of Student Development, and Associate Dean of Student Support Services. One of Deborah's priorities at Richland was helping and supporting underprepared, low-income, and first-generation college students for both technical and transfer degree programs. As Associate Dean of Student Support Services, she supervised the federal TRIO Programs such as Upward Bound and the Dallas Community College Program, Rising Star. Deborah excelled at connecting, communicating, and creating partnerships with the Garland, Richardson, and Dallas School Districts. She opened up many doors for further collaboration between the school districts and Richland. Deborah also served as Co-Chair for the Richardson ISD College Fair event on the Richland campus for 10 years.
Also an active member of her local book club, Deborah found joy in literature and the camaraderie of fellow book lovers. Her passion for travel took her to many beautiful destinations, where she created lasting memories and shared her adventurous spirit with family and friends.
Deborah is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Beth Turner. Deborah will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.
A memorial service will be held on September 13, 2025 at Aria Cremation Services & Funeral Home, where family and friends are invited to celebrate her remarkable life and share their fondest memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Friendship House of Garland https://firstfocus.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/247/responses/new] in her honor.
Rest in peace, dear Deborah. Your legacy of love and kindness will forever inspire those you leave behind.