Debra Kinkead
January 24, 1958 - November 15, 2025
Debra Kinkead, age 67, of Hampton, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly at her home on November 15, 2025. Though she left this world quietly and on her own terms, her life was anything but quiet. Born on January 24, 1958, Debra was known for her stubborn strength, ornery humor, deep love for her family, and unwavering pride in hard work. She believed in doing things the right way-her way-and she carried that conviction into every chapter of her life. She attended United Township High School and, throughout her life, was a jack-of-all-trades, but took the greatest pride in her 24 combined years of service at John Deere.
Debra's love ran deep, even if she often tucked it behind a smart remark, a sarcastic comeback, or a playful glare. Beneath her tough shell was a woman who showed love through loyalty, effort, and always doing whatever she could for the people she cared about.
She found joy in simple things: getting lost in a good book, cooking and providing meals that brought everyone together, and playing board games-especially when she got competitive. That's when the real teasing came out.
Debra is survived by her children: Brian Kinkead, Jennifer Vermeersch, and Angela Kight; her grandchildren: Dakota and Bree Neaveill, Dalton Kinkead, Alexandria Simmons, Ethan Simmons, and Rylee Carver; and her great-grandchild, Haven Neaveill. She is also survived by her siblings Mark (Michelle) Kinkead, Daniel (Julie) Kinkead, Teresa Magana, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will forever carry her strength, humor, and love in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her mother, Donna Hunt; her stepfather, Bob Hunt; and her father, Bernie Kinkead.
A Rosary will be recited at 3:00 p.m. Monday, November 24, at Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline, with visitation following from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday, November 25, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions toward planting a tree or placing a bench in Empire Park near Hampton, where Debra found the most peace in life.
Her stubbornness made her strong, her humor made life lighter, and her love made our lives richer. She will be missed more than words can express.
Online condolences may be left for the family at
vanhoe.comVan Hoe Funeral Home
1500 Sixth St., East Moline, IL
309-755-1414
Published by The Rock Island Dispatch Argus on Nov. 21, 2025.