Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ripley Funeral and Cremation Services - Ripley on Feb. 24, 2026.
Deborah Jo Mask, age 70, departed this earthly life on Monday, February 23, 2026, at Tippah County Hospital in
Ripley, Mississippi.
In honoring her wishes, Deborah will be cremated, and no public services are scheduled at this time. She was never one to desire a grand display or much fuss made over her. Instead, she preferred to be remembered for her loving heart, gentle spirit, and the quiet way she made the world around her a little brighter.
Born April 12, 1955, in
Ripley, Mississippi, Deborah was the cherished daughter of the late Marian "Bud" Mask and Peggy Graves Mask. She was a proud graduate of Blue Mountain Christian College, where she earned her bachelor's degree in science and Home Economics. Deborah faithfully devoted many years of her life to serving others through her work at Tippah County Hospital and Rest Haven Nursing Home, beginning in the early 1990s and continuing until her retirement as a dietary manager. Through her dedication, she nourished not only bodies, but also hearts, offering kindness and comfort to patients, residents, and coworkers alike.
A Christian woman who found joy in life's simple blessings, Deborah was free-spirited, down to earth, and effortlessly kind. Affectionately known as "Mama" to those who loved her most, she carried a nurturing presence that extended far beyond her own family. She found peace in nature - tending to her flowers and plants, walking through the woods, and spending countless treasured moments with her beloved dogs, Hershey, Frisky, Dino, and Matilda. Her home was her sanctuary, always warm, welcoming, and filled with love.
It seems only fitting - and perhaps a little ironic - that Deborah so happened to pass on a Monday, a day she never particularly cared for. She often joked about Mondays arriving far too quickly and preferred the slower, sweeter pace of the rest of the week. Even in that small detail, those who knew her best can smile through their tears, knowing she would have something witty to say about it.
Deborah had a remarkable way of seeing the good in everyone. She never viewed anyone as less than herself and instilled in her daughter the unwavering belief that, regardless of opinions or differences, every person deserves to be treated with love, dignity, and respect. If you walked through her door, you could count on being offered something to eat and leaving with more than you came for - whether it be a thoughtful gift, wise advice, or simply the comfort of knowing someone truly cared.
Deborah was more than a mother; she was a guiding light, a safe place, and a steady source of unconditional love for so many. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, the legacy she leaves behind - one of compassion, generosity, and heartfelt affection - will continue to live on in the lives she touched for years to come.
In addition to her faithful canine companies, those left to cherish her memoires include her daughter, Shaunta Triplett (Cory), her grandson, Michael Alexander Herman (Ginger), and her step grandson, Zykielez Triplett, along with a wide circle of friends and extended family.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that memorial contributions be made to Ripley Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Debroah's family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Debrorah Jo Mask, please visit our floral store.