Debra McClain

OBITUARY

Debra Louise Wallace

Debra Louise Wallace, born on September 13, 1950, to Vinie Mae Wallace and O.B. Howard in Denver, Colorado, has left us to begin her eternal journey. She was the beloved firstborn of four children. Debra was affectionately called "Gypsy" as a child, and she had a penchant for adorning herself with everyone's jewelry. It is remembered that she sucked her thumb until the age of 14.

Debra received her education in the Denver Public School system, acquiring knowledge that would accompany her throughout her life.

After high school, Debra entered into a relationship with Stanley Jefferson and welcomed her first son, Royce L. Wallace.

Debra later found love again when she married George B. McClain on April 23, 1971, in Denver. From this union, five children were born: George, Dena, Garrick, Malcum, and Jamaica.

Subsequently, Debra embarked on a long-term relationship with Bennie Williams and together they had two children: Bennie McClain and Roosevelt D. Williams.

Debra shared over a decade of love with Charlie Ward until his passing.

Recently retired from Alden B. Brown Property Management Company where she served as a Custodian, Debra dedicated herself to her work until her well-deserved retirement.

Known for being someone who would always tell you the truth, Debra was considered a mother figure to many—a confidant and mentor—as well as a voice of reason. Her honesty was unwavering; if you were not prepared to hear the truth, you knew not to seek it from Debra.

In her leisure time, Debra enjoyed fishing trips and camping adventures. She found joy in preparing delicious meals for family gatherings and cherished moments spent playing cards or going out to Central City. Dance blended seamlessly into her spirit while music provided an enduring soundtrack to moments spent with loved ones. Her extraordinary culinary skills were renowned, especially when it came to her spicy dishes, but her Sunday dinners at the "Grape Street Café" were undoubtedly cherished by all who attended. The indelible mark Debra left on each family gathering or party was irreplaceable.

Affectionately regarded as a mother by many, Debra's maternal care knew no bounds. Her children, grandchildren, and those she loved were always at the forefront of her mind. She remained steadfast in her dedication and love right up until the final days before her passing.

Among Debra's closest and most cherished relationships were her three longtime friends: Sheryl "The Pearl," Cheryl Dawson, Antoinette Williams, and Marvin Breaux.

Her aunt Sanora, sister/cousins Edna, Connie, Sammi-jo, Tina and Rese and male cousins Jessie and Dorrell will all carry a yearning for the motherly love that Debra so selflessly provided. Will forever treasure memories of the fun-loving sister, friend, and cousin that Debra was. Her parties and dinners will be deeply missed.

For her children, Debra will be fondly remembered for her bell-bottom jeans and afro while cruising in her green Saab, listening to Gin and Juice. Working tirelessly to provide for her family, Debra exemplified sophistication.

Her eldest grandson Racquise recalls conversations with Debra about their shared devotion to the Broncos football team and their mutual love for carrot cake.

On February 7, 2024, surrounded by her children and loved ones, Debra L. McClain departed from this world as she transitioned gracefully into eternal glory within the sanctuary of her home.

Debra was preceded in death by her parents Vinie Mae Wallace and O.B. Howard; her sister/cousin Sharon; brothers Michael "Buff," Roy "JR," and Charles Higgins; as well as her sons, Royce Wallace and Jamaica McClain; grandson, T.J. Breaux and cousin-in-law Elijah McClain.

She is survived by her children George, Garrick, Dena, Malcolm, Bennie, and Roosevelt, as well as her dear friend Victoria Johnson and family. Additionally, Aunt Senora Lewis and Family, The Singleton Family, The Breaux Family, The Lewis Family, The Williams family, The Harper Family, The Phillips Family, The Ward Family —alongside a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, friends, and extended family members who held a special place in her heart—mourn the loss of Debra while celebrating the profound impact she had on their lives.

Signing off from the Grape Street Café and family,