Debra Jean Britton

Debra Jean Britton, age 66, passed away unexpectedly in her home on Monday, February 9, 2026. She was born September 20, 1959, to Robert and Dolores (Brey) Behnke in Milwaukee, WI.

Deb graduated from James Madison High School, Milwaukee, WI in 1977 and went on to graduate from UW Milwaukee in 1981. She worked in retail as a manager for most of her life including Kohl's Food Stores, for over 25 years, followed by Walmart and Pet Smart before joining Jones Dairy Farm until she retired early.

Having to stand strong as a boss, she always held her ground and made sure that no one took advantage of a situation. She decided to work part-time at Kwik Trip in Darien, WI where she still was employed. At work, Deb was a firm, stubborn, but gentle soul who laid down the law and dictated by the rules. Though her work taught her to be tough, at home she was the most kindhearted, compassionate, and loving wife and mother.

She married the love of her life David R Britton June 7, 1980, and they lived in Milwaukee until moving to Whitewater, WI where they raised their three daughters Laura, Samantha, and Christine. Deb was a woman of God who regularly attended St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Milton, WI, always holding His word close to her and looking to Him for guidance.

She had a heart of gold, always caring for everyone else no matter what she was going through. She was there to do whatever she needed to make sure her family was taken care of. She loved to cook and bake, enjoying many weekends and holidays in the kitchen, teaching her grandchildren her secrets.

Deb was a fan of history, gardening, and enjoyed watching nature. She had many bird books and would always share her knowledge of the different birds that frequented her feeders. She loved to go on adventures with her family and never missed an opportunity to visit a new antique store.

She was the biggest fan in the stands, supporting all her grandchildren through the various sports they participated in and would travel with her husband to all their events. Deb dedicated her life to her family, spending countless hours tending to the needs of others and we shall never forget the love she gave to all.

Deb is survived by her husband David Britton; daughters Samantha (Britton) Ellefson and Christine Britton; son-in-law Justin Petitt; grandchildren Evelyn and Chase Britton (children of Christine), Carson Petitt (son of Justin), and Eric Ellefson (son of Samantha). She is further survived by brothers Scott Behnke, David (Karen) Behnke, and Robert (Becky) Behnke; sister Karen (Peter) Buskuskie; and many other close family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Laura (Britton) Petitt, and her mother and father.

Visitation to be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI 53190, from 1:00 PM to 2:45 PM. Memorial Service to begin at 3:00 PM.