Debra J. Smith

Debra J. Smith (née Kamps) passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 24, 1956, in Berwyn, Illinois.

Debra is survived by her devoted husband, James Smith, whom she married on September 9, 1978, at St. Mary of Celle in Berwyn, Illinois; her loving daughters, Julie Smith, Ashley Smith, and Mandy (Isaiah, CW2, US Army) Bishop; and her cherished grandchildren, Caleb, Tyler, Audriana, Brayden, Charlee, Brinley, and Boone.

She is also survived by her loving father Robert Kamps (3rd Class Petty Officer, US Navy, Ret.); dear sister, Geri Kamps; her adoring nieces, Tracy and Marie Bailey (and Marie's children, Chase and Reaghan); and her nephew, SGT Robert Kamps, US Army(and his child, Katie), all of whom she loved like her own.

In addition, Debra is survived by dear friends, James and Ranee Sudkamp. Their enduring bond, forged through years of shared experiences, included raising children together and later embracing the joys of grandparenthood side by side.

Debra is further survived by her beloved aunt, Kathleen Bily, who held the rare and special place in her life of being both family and her very best friend, along with Kathleen's children, Jackie and John Bily.

She is also survived by Heidi Meehan, her beloved best friend, who stood by her side through every moment of life. From the day they met on Bothwell Lane, they shared an indescribable bond-one built on unwavering friendship, laughter, and a deep understanding that neither could imagine life without the other.

Debra also held a special place in her heart for Sarah "Lou," Leah, and Lyndsey, who became like daughters to her. As her daughters' closest friends, she welcomed them into her life with open arms and loved them as her own, becoming a second mom to each of them. Countless other family members and friends will treasure her memory.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Kamps and her niece, Jenny Bily.

Deb dedicated many years to serving both the Bolingbrook & Plainfield School Districts before stepping into what would become her most notable role as office manager of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA. There, she was an integral part of the team whose passion and commitment helped turn the vision of the Y into a reality, raising the funds that made it possible for the community to benefit for generations.

While her professional accomplishments were meaningful, Deb's greatest and most cherished roles were those she held within her family-as a devoted wife, a loving mom, and a proud "Nini." As a firefighter's wife and mother, she stood with strength and pride, supporting her family every step of the way. She poured her heart into her children's lives, coaching t-ball and gymnastics, serving as a room mom, leading a Girl Scout troop, and never missing a single extracurricular activity. She was the heart behind every holiday, transforming her home with decorations and warmth, creating traditions that her family will carry on.

That same love and dedication extended to her grandchildren. Deb was the planner of special outings, the provider of sports gear, spent countless hours in the NICU and therapy, and the one who made every Christmas morning and birthday celebration feel magical. She took time with each grandchild, sharing life's simple wonders-like the beauty of a butterfly's life cycle-and filled their hearts with comfort and joy, singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" to them countless times.

Her legacy is one of unwavering love, selflessness, and the deep connections she nurtured within her family and community. She will be remembered for the way she made every moment feel special and every person feel deeply loved.

For those who would like to leave a lasting tribute to Debra's life, the family would appreciate memorial donations being made to one's favorite charity or plant a native tree or butterfly bush in her honor. Please omit flowers.

Visitation will be Monday, March 23, 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, corner of Routes 30 & 59, Plainfield. Funeral services will follow at 12:00 Noon at the funeral home with Pastor Robin Caldwell of St. John Lutheran Church, Joliet, officiating. Interment will be private.

All are welcome to join the family to continue to celebrate Deb's life at Ashbury's at Boughton Ridge in Bolingbrook after the service.