Debra Kay Stong

Debra “Debbie” Stong, the beloved matriarch of her family, passed away in Amarillo, Texas, on February 15, 2026, at the age of 72. She left this world as she lived in it, surrounded by the family she adored.

Born in Colorado Springs to Robert and Jaqueline Driscoll, Debbie’s life was defined by her devotion to others. She found her calling in nursing in 1992, caring for patients at Georgia Street Manor, Heritage Convalescent Center, and Bivins Nursing Home. However, her most cherished job was retiring to help raise her grandchildren.

To know Debbie was to know her soundtrack; she always had a song playing, with a playlist as unique as she was, ranging from Queen and Jeremy Camp to Bruno Mars. She was an intellectual explorer with an insatiable curiosity, spending hours researching astronomy, cooking, conspiracy theories, and gemstones. If there was a trivia game being played, Debbie was in it to win it.

Her family will profoundly miss her random outbursts of operatic singing, her goofy sense of humor, and her protective, loving nature.

Debbie is survived by her father: Robert Driscoll, three brothers: Bob and wife KJ, Rick and wife Cathy, and Chris and wife Tammy. Her memory will be cherished by her loving children: Erika Brittain and fiancé Matt, Matthew Penland Sr. and wife Autumn, Breana McCoy, and Jenni McCoy. Her love carries on through her twelve grandchildren: Matthew (Kelsey), Alyssa (Jensen), Leya (Phil), Jaylen, Kayla, Elisabeth, Kaiden, Sasha, Cameron, Kyrah, Joshua, and Joel; as well as great-grandchildren Jahmir, Jensen, Anova, and two expected arrivals.

She now joins her mother, Jackie, in eternal peace.

A private celebration of life is being held to honor her memory.