Debra Ellen Reinders

Phoenix -- Debra Ellen Reinders, 71, passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones of natural causes. She was born to Hank and Joyce Reinders on September 13, 1954 in Lincoln, Illinois. Debra was preceded in death by her siblings Kathy, David, Johnny and Eric; and her parents Hank and Joyce Reinders. From 1964, Debra was raised by Jerry (now deceased) and Louise Reinders in Springfield, Illinois. She is survived by Louise Reinders, Connie Reinders her sister and Michael Susskind, her partner of 30 Years.

Debra graduated from Southeast High School, Springfield, in 1972. She earned her Bachelor's and Master’s Degrees from Illinois State University in 1976 and 1978. She moved to the Phoenix Area in the early 1980s where she was a Professor of English at both Arizona State University and Mesa Community College until retirement in 2001.

Deb and her partner, Michael, resided in Ahwatukee, where they enjoyed each other's company…whether sitting at home, traveling to relatives or on their regular getaways to Las Vegas. Deb is remembered for her generous nature, her never-ending gifts to the special people in her life -- and her many beloved causes.

A Memorial Service will be held for Debra on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Whitney & Murphy Bueler Mortuary, 14 W. Hulet Drive, Chandler, AZ 85225. An Illinois Memorial Service will be held at a future date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ASPCA.org/ways-to-give">ASPCA. 

We love you Deb.