Deborah Kay Stratton

Deborah Kay Stratton, of West Frankfort, Illinois, passed peacefully into the arms of Christ during the early morning hours on December 10th, surrounded by family. She was 71 years old.
Born in Tacoma, Washington, Debby would soon after move to West Frankfort, Illinois where she was raised in a community she loved. Debby graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1977 with a bachelors degree in education. She spent most of her adult life in Texas, where she raised her family, built lifelong friendships, and enjoyed a long career as a dedicated elementary school teacher. After retiring, Debby embraced her passion for flowers, spending countless joyful hours working as a florist in both Texas and Illinois. She was also a dedicated member of the Northern Baptist Church of West Frankfort.
Debby is survived by her children Cam Berlin (Austin) and Chris Stratton (Lauren), who were the greatest gifts of her life. She adored her two beautiful grandchildren, Barrett and Laken, who brought her endless joy and pride. She is also survived by her loving mother, Barbara Arnold, her brothers Jay Arnold (Cheryl), Brian Williams (Cindy), and her sisters Laura Trummer (Bruce) and Karen Sorrentino along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and cherished friends.
Debby faced her illness with incredible strength, dignity, and unwavering faith. Though her journey brought significant challenges, she remained courageous and grace-filled until the end. The family would like to extend special thanks to Hospice of Southern Illinois for their compassionate care and the comfort they provided in her final days.
A graveside service will be held at Boner Cemetery on Sunday, December 28th at 1pm, where family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance.
A celebration of Debby's life will take place early next year in Texas, with details to be shared at a later time.
Debby will be remembered for her sense of humor, gentle heart and the way she made everyone around her feel loved and seen. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren and all whose lives were brightened by her kindness and generosity.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois where she volunteered during the last year.