Debra Lynn Shenker

Debra "Debbie" Lynn Shenker, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on December 3, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on April 20, 1955, Debbie lived a life defined by kindness, warmth, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to the people she loved.
To know Debbie was to know one of the truly nicest people to walk this earth. She had a rare gift for lifting others up - always showing up, always supporting, always cheering on the people she cared about. With her passing, the world has lost one of its greatest encouragers, and her family has lost their biggest fan.
Debbie was active in her community, giving freely of her time for many years. And when it became more difficult to volunteer physically, she continued to give financially, ensuring the causes she cared about were supported. She was eager and willing to help anyone who asked - and even some who didn't - offering kindness long before it was ever expected.
She also had a deep love of adventure. A passionate traveler, she especially adored cruising and exploring new places with her husband, family, and friends, collecting memories from each journey that will be treasured forever.
Debbie is survived by her loving husband of 36 years, Joel Shenker; her daughters, Mandy (Dave) Llewellyn and Rachel Shenker (Ruben Friedman); and her son, Ben Shenker (Dani True). She was a proud and deeply devoted grandmother to Madison Llewellyn, Stewart Llewellyn, Duncan Llewellyn, Kadyn Shenker, and Bella Shenker - and she was, in every sense, the perfect grandma. Debbie never missed a game, no matter the weather or the drive. She brought everyone together with her warmth, her humor, and her unwavering support. Her goodbye hugs often came with a quietly slipped $20 bill, a gesture as classic as it was heartfelt. She was always quick to grab lunch with a grandchild on a snow day, and she happily hosted sleepovers so the parents could enjoy a weekend away. These small, loving acts will be cherished forever.
She is also survived by her father, Lowell "Pete" Watson, and her sister, Abby Sieberns, both of whom she loved dearly. She was preceded in death by her mother, Naomi Watson, and her brother, Terry Watson.
A funeral service will be held Sunday at 1:30 PM at Congregation Beth Shalom, located at 500 Green Meadows Rd, Columbia, MO 65203.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart of Missouri CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), the Central Missouri Food Bank, or the Spay and Neuter Project, all organizations that reflected Debbie's compassion and commitment to helping others.
Debbie's memory will forever be a blessing. Her kindness, her gentle presence, and her boundless support will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com