Debra Lynn Barry

Debra Lynn Barry, 73, passed away at home, surrounded by family, of a three-year battle with cancer, in the early morning of January 22, 2026. She fought courageously and showed an inner strength and positive attitude till the end. Debi was born in December 13, 1952, in Watsonville, CA, to Richard and Eunice Stewart. They soon divorced, and her mom married Kenny Sears, whom Debi referred to as her "dad". She graduated from Watsonville High School in 1971 and continued her education at Cabrillo College. Soon afterward she did extensive traveling through Africa and then later with her friend, Rosie, traveled through Europe. On December 15, 1979, Debi married Robert (Bob) Barry and had two children, Samantha and Bridget. That made a total of four children with Kelley Cavanaugh and Shane Barry from previous marriages. One of those "mine, hers and ours families". Together they built a home in the Santa Cruz Mountains in 1987 and raised their family. During their 46 years of marriage their endeavors included many activities, such as surfing, snow skiing, sailing, fishing, water skiing, river rafting, all with friends and family in tow. Traveling was a big part of their lives. No moss grew under Debi's feet. They made annual trips to Connecticut to see Bob's family and Puerto Vallarta to visit Debi's parents during the winter months, that always included fishing and catching dorado in her dad's boat. During her battle with cancer, she was determined not to let it effect her traveling. They would go to Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Last summer they went to Montana to visit friends and go to Yellowstone National Park. And during Thanksgiving of 2025 the whole family (including grandsons) vacationed on the Big Island of Hawaii. She was a real trooper! Debi was an avid reader, enjoyed playing cribbage with her husband and friends and family. Also Bunco with her girlfriends. Was a fabulous cook and loved to sew. And was a teacher's aide at Mountain School for many years where she acquired many friends including students and teachers. Also devoted 20 years as a librarian at Twin Lakes Church. Debi was always positive throughout life and there when needed by friends or strangers. She was the "salt of the Earth" as noted by one friend. She was also noted for her "big blue eyes". She will be greatly missed by all. Debi is survived by her husband Bob, daughter Kelley Cavanaugh, Samantha Jilka, Bridget Barry; son Shane Barry, grandsons Hayden Jilka, Garrett Jilka, and Jacob Williams. She is also survived by many cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and an aunt whom she all adored. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Dante. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in Debi's name may be made to the Hospice of Santa Cruz County or Twin Lakes Church. They express their huge appreciation for the staff of Hospice, especially nurse Aileen Barandas. A celebration of life and reception will take place at Twin Lakes Church in Monschke Hall on April 24th, Friday at 11am.